








o » O ’ ^ ^<p- • ^ 

.V e » • o^ O <»; *L,ork.^ 






.>A .-tv 
^ > 


Pvt 





<* c,^ 

t 'V V 
VA 



o > 


■>•*• <«> '••• 4% 

O'" * "-■' •'■^ ‘ 

^ iA.\ _ ^-^w-Taa^T ^ O ^■^ • 

O 4.^- / (vO ^ -<^1^ O 

t.o *0^ > V 

: : 









V , ^ ^ r # 'I • A ^ o « 0 ^ <S^ 

f^•<>-^ o. <0 ^V 






' '^'$0 </ 
t '^J' V = 

••»■ v''’ 

o ^ • '^ ' » ♦ 




T • o 


c,^ '^n 

-* «5'^ * 


0 0 ♦ . 'O 








V •'0-0’ 

♦ 


* <6^ * 


^ ' ♦ • s 


^ A 

a\^ ^ 'O . X ' 

1*^*^ , • " JJ -. ^ 

\ » "f •y' 



\0 v^. • ’ < O 

„ ^ "-%^^* >5- ^ 

‘'okO® 





'o • A '* .0 


& ^ 


. t / . ^ 
..♦^/r?a, -r 


9 


I 





♦ 


■ J 


t 



< 




IW 

.j I 



,s 







r 




V 4 

k 

I 



r 

I 


I 








LIFE II THE LAITY. 





4 > » 


$ t 




•4. ^ /. ♦ c 

^ r '^N • ^ 

jl. ' - . .'. >V > ' • • 

•’>,1 • V - « • 


t 






% 


' • ’ • 4 \ m . • ^ * m 4 . 

. ■ ♦» • .**'•* ' • • . / 

>.^,./ i ^ if - .: ‘ V -... 


• . » 






^ .• 


%* • 




•! ,' 




•f <rr 


».• 




•% 




■i''-v 


. 


- Vv '.- ‘**;/''^ 

y 




*4 


1 • 

It 


I 


■ . 


• . 


<1 * 


« • 


• I 




I 

• > 

• sr . 


% • 


% 

• 1 


r 

( ' 


» 

) 




c 






A \\ # 

* ’ 


\ 


*« # 


I I 


^ ^ *; 


\ • 




tlik ■^:‘' • 

ri< 


N * t ' 


. » * 








♦ J — 


.1 \ 

4 W, 


1 ^ 


* ^ 


^ t 


r 

I 


’ • I » ' 



♦ to 


'.j 


■ \ 






4 ♦ 






'-v: 


V/ 




sr^.- m;. ' '■• 

' *' ' ' ^. .. 
iv -"' 


f 

f 






0 • . 

I ♦ 

h 


* V 

i ' 


i 


* r 
** 




4 

m 

1 


* 

I 


0 i 

« <♦ V*. * C 

A 


.1 •- 


J 

vV .7 ■ 


A » 




‘v 5 r'* ^ 


f 


V .1 


‘ 4.^4 


I * • 


# 4 

r 


ji 


- A* 



^ * 


.1 




r . 




>4 


' 1 




•• » 


i'r.- 

.✓r 


• f 


i’ r'K 

\ »> 

■ r \ . 


' V 


1 » 


« • 


i*. • 


W 








« 1 


. I 


t * 




/ 


j 






-r 7 ■ 


^ ' / 




-v' .-' 


I 

I # 


9 

4 if 


\* 


• ^ 


J. 


k « ' 




/ ^ 

r 


< 








• -1 

.• ,‘ 

f 


• v . 





• ^ 


' } 

s I 


4 ' «« 

:• 0 ' 


>. 

.^a:; 


^ « 





LIFE IS THE LAITY; 


OS, 


THE HISTORY OF A STATION. 


Br Rev. L. D. BAVIS, 

Cl 

AUTHOR OF “LIFE IN THIS ITINERANCY.” 



BY CARLTON <fc PORTER, 200 MULBERBY-STRKBT, 

1858. 


Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1858, by 

L. D. DAVIS, 

in the Clerk’s Office of the District Court of the Southern 
District of New-York. 



1 





INTRODUCTION. 


The writer of this volume, on a former 
occasion, attempted a delineation of pas- 
toral life in the itinerant ministry, and 
sought to show the practical workings 
of that system in relation to those who 
fill the sacred office. It is his effort in 
these pages to illustrate the influence 
of the same system on the laity of the 
Church. He also hopes to aid in cor- 
recting such evils as may be found to 
exist, most of which, as he humbly be- 


6 


INTEODUCTION. 


lieves, may be easily removed by the 
iinited efforts of the pastors and their 
people. 

On both occasions the narrative form 
has been adopted as better calculated 
to secure the result. The characters 
drawn are believed, without a single 
exception, to have their counterpart in 
real life. Indeed many of them may 
be found in every Church, though a 
wider range than any single congrega- 
tion must be taken to include them all. 

As in “ Life in the Itinerancy ” some 
persons within the author’s acquaintance 
have considered themselves personally 
referred to, it is anticipated that similar 
complaints may arise in regard to “Life 


INTEODUCTION. 


1 


in tlie Laity.” If so, let such be assured 
that nothing of the kind is intended. 
If the reader finds the description ap- 
propriate and is inclined to make the 
application to himself, he is at liberty 
to do so at his pleasure, and it is to be 
hoped to his profit. 

It may be thought by some that the 
delineation is too much confined to the 
wrongs that are found existing among 
us. It is true that these have a promi- 
nent place in the narrative^ from the fact 
that it is to them removal the volume 
aims. The majority of the laity are 
true to the interests of religion and the 
Church, and such is the representation 
here given. But there is almost every- 


8 


INTRODUCTION. 


where a restless minority, a class of 
small-minded persons, who contrive in 
public, as in these pages, to occupy po- 
sitions of greatest notoriety, and who 
not unfrequently bring contempt on the 
institutions of the Gospel. Whether 
we desire it or not, these thrust them- 
selves on our attention at all times and 
on all occasions. 

Thankful for the favorable reception 
which has been given to his former 
work, the author submits these pages 
with the encouraging hope that their 
influence for good will not be altogether 
in vain. 


CONTENTS. 




CHAPTER I. 

THE VILLAGE OP BERLIN — A REVIVAL — REV. MR. BLISS — 
OPPOSITION — THE CONVERTS — JOSEPH AMES — NEW ASSO- 
CIATIONS — THE STATION PAGE 13 

CHAPTER II. 

TESTS OP CHARACTER — AN INCONSISTENCY — ITS INFLU- 
ENCE — A CHANGE OF PASTORS — THE ITINERANCY — 
BACKSLIDINGS 22 


CHAPTER HI. 

A NEW STANI>-POINT — THE BOARD OF STEWARDS — MR. VER- 
NON — MR. GRAY — FATHER WELLS — MR. PUTNAm' AND 
OTHERS 35 


CHAPTER IV. 

REV. MR. OLEY — ONE-IDEA MEN — DISAFFECTION — SPEAK- 

40 


ING EVIL OP THE CHURCH — AN ENCOURAGEMENT 


10 


CONTENTS 


CHAPTER y. 

THE APPROACHING CONFERENCE — NOVELTY — DISCUSSION OF 
MINISTERIAL CHARACTER — A MISTAKE — FAREWELL TOKEN 
— MUTUAL PLEASURE PAGE 49 

CHAPTER YI. 

THE PREACHER’S SALARY — RAISING A DEFICIENCY — EX- 
CUSES — SCHOOL FOR THE STUDY OF HUMAN NATURE — 
LESSONS 66 


CHAPTER YII. 

REV. MR. WILSON — FIRST IMPRESSIONS — VARIETY OF OPIN- 
IONS — A DECLENSION — REMEDY 66 


CHAPTER YIII. 

LOSS AND GAIN — A REACTION — REPAIRING THE PARSONAGE 
— SELF-DENIAL OP THE FATHERS — FURNITURE — THE 
FESTIVAL — RENEWED PROSPERITY — ITS CAUSE 78 


CHAPTER IX. 

PETITIONING FOR A PREACHER — CONTENDING FOR A PRINCI- 


PLE — DIVERSITY OF OPINION — REV. MR. DUNN — A LOBBY 
MEMBER AT CONFERENCE — SUCCESS 87 


CONTENTS 


11 


CHAPTER X. 

THE FIRST QUARTERLY CONFERENCE — MAKING AN “ALLOW- 
ANCE” — A STRIKE — DISCUSSION — THE SALARY RAISED 
THE DONATION VISIT — A MISTAKE CORRECTED..PAGE 95 


CHAPTER XI. 


PLEADING POVERTY — PUNISHING THE PREACHER — MEAN- 
NESS — ITS INFLUENCE 110 


CHAPTER XII. 

BROTHER GRAY AT CONFERENCE — REV. MR. SPENCER — 
a’ cheap PREACHER PROCURED — THE LOAVES AND 
FISHES 118 


CHAPTER XIII. 

SICKNESS AND DEATH OP BROTHER VERNON — HIS CHARACTER 
AND INFLUENCE — THE LOSS 127 

CHAPTER XIV. 

DISCOURAGEMENTS — GOING ABROAD TO WORSHIP — REV. MR. 
NELSON — REDUCING THE SALARY ON A NEW PRINCIPLE 
— A CHEAP GOSPEL — RENTING PEWS SO AS TO MAKE 
MONEY 132 


12 


CONTENTS 


CHAPTER XV. 

CHARITY BEGINNING AT HOME — TAKING BREATH — THE 
BIBLE AGENT — SUNDAY-SCHOOL UNION — THE MISSIONARY 
COLLECTION — A CENT A WEEK FOR THE CONVERSION OF 
THE WORLD — MR. TITUS — FIFTH COLLECTION — BROTHER 
QUIGLEY AND HIS TWO SHILLINGS PAGE 147 

CHAPTER XYI. 

CHANGES IN THE OFFICIAL BOARD — DOING WITHOUT A 
PREACHER — BROTHER BURNS — A CHURCH DOLLAR — REV. 
MR. TOWNLEY — CHURCH REPAIRS 162 

CHAPTER XVII. 

UNEXPECTED CHANGE OF PASTORS SHORT TERMS — THEIR 

INFLUENCE — REV. ME. GOLDEN — CALLING ON THE PREACH- 
ER’S WIFE 175 

CHAPTER XVIII. 

PASTORAL VISITING — BROTHER BENTON — SISTER QUIGLEY 
— A GREAT REVIVAL AND ITS FRUITS — REMOVAL OF THE 
PASTOR 185 


CHAPTER XIX. 


RESULTS OP THE REVIVAL — REVIEW — ATTAINMENTS — 
CONCLUSION 195 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


CHAPTER I. 

THE VILLAGE OP BERLIN — A REVIVAL — REV. MR. BLISS — 
OPPOSITION — THE CONVERTS — JOSEPH AMES — NEW ASSO- 
CIATIONS — THE STATION. 

The village of Berlin had been for several 
months the theater of an intense excite- 
ment. It was usually a quiet little town, 
situated at the foot of an inland lake, with a 
high range of hills stretching away to the 
south and west, and possessing a variety of 
rural attractions which had rendered it 
somewhat famous. The general intelli- 
gence and staid morality of its inhabitants 
were also of a character to command uni- 
versal respect. The farmers for many 


14 


LIPE IN THE LAITY. 


miles around were accustomed to transact 
their business here; and when the toils 
and labors of the week were ended, many 
of them came with equal zeal to spend the 
Christian Sabbath in the public worship of 
Almighty God. Though containing not 
more than two thousand inhabitants, each 
of the leading denominations of the country 
was represented by a church and congrega- 
tion, which were, in the main, properly 
conducted and well sustained. 

At the time of which we write there was 
in progress a widely-extended revival of 
religion. So powerful was its influence 
that all classes of society were more or 
less affected. The religious and irreligious 
seemed almost equally concerned in what 
was takings place. Large numbers who 
had heretofore stood aloof from the Church, 
were now crowding to her sacred altars; 
not a few of whom were already rejoicing 
in the assurance that they had passed from 
death unto life. Almost every day wit- 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 15 

nessed additional triumphs of grace in the 
awakening and conversion of souls. 

The revival, and scenes connected with 
it, constituted the almost universal theme 
of conversation. The devout Christian, 
who exulted in the prosperity of the 
Chm’ch, pointed with grateful emotions 
to the tokens of Divine favor with which 
the people were blessed. Tlie skeptic 
looked upon all this increased interest, 
and these unusual efforts, as the outgoings 
of sheer fanaticism, and was not only filled 
with anger by what he saw and heard, but 
was fully aroused in his opposition. He 
saw in the influence exerted a power which 
was sweeping away his refuge, and under- 
mining the foundation on which he had 
fancied himself secure. Even those who had 
been heretofore indifferent were aroused, 
some joining themselves to one party and 
some to the other. 

The preacher, Eev. Mr. Bliss, was well 
calculated for such an occasion. He was a 


16 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


man in middle life ; and it was chiefly 
through his instrumentality that the work 
had been promoted. It is true, other de- 
nominations had now entered the field, 
and other clergymen had become efficient 
co-laborers in the good work. Still, Mr. 
Bliss was recognized by all parties as the 
leader, under God, of the marshaled host 
who were so successfully making war on 
the kingdom of Satan. With the converts 
he was an especial favorite. They saw in 
him the instrument of their salvation, and 
blessed God that he had ever come among 
them. The Church also loved him as a 
pastor, and followed his counsels, as they 
were found to be in harmony with the Di- 
vine word. 

To the enemies of the Church Mr. Bliss 
was particularly obnoxious ; not because of 
his errors, real or supposed, but of his suc- 
cess. This class of persons looked upon 
every newly-converted soul as a trophy 
taken from their ranks, and viewed the 


LITE IN THE LAITY. 


17 


change as discrediting their course of life. 
As a means of self-defense, rather than 
from any other motive, they entered the 
arena as opponents of the revival, and suc- 
ceeded, not so much in hindering it as in 
hardening their own hearts, and blinding 
their own eyes with the denser mists of 
skepticism and doubt. 

Among those who had been recently con- 
verted, to whom the reader should be in- 
troduced, was Mr. Joseph Ames, a young 
business man of fine talents, and a general 
favorite in society. Though heretofore an 
attendant at church, and maintaining a 
respectful deportment toward the institu- 
tions of religion, he had never until now 
given its claims any serious attention. 
Since his conversion he had been exceed- 
ingly active, and had exerted a command- 
ing infiuence. As if to make up for past 
deficiencies, all his energies were de- 
voted to his Master’s service. "With him 
was his friend and companion, William 
2 


18 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


Holmes, who had undergone a similar 
change, and who was equally zealous in 
behalf of the cause they had embraced. 
These, with others, had become members 
of the Church, and gave promise, to all who 
knew them, of extensive usefulness. 

By this change in their views and feel- 
ings, both Ames and Holmes were brought 
into relations entirely new. Such of their 
old companions as were still unconverted 
withdrew their friendship, and treated them 
with comparative coolness, rather shunning 
than courting their society. Associations 
long kept up were broken off by a kind of 
mutual consent, and our young friends were 
left to the enjoyment of that higher type of 
friendship which is found only in the fel- 
lowship of the saints. 

For the loss of their old companions they 
were more than compensated in being per- 
mitted to mingle with the kindred spirits 
that now surrounded them. They were 
both surprised and strengthened by the cor- 


LIFE m THE LAITY. 


19 


diality with which they were greeted in 
their new relation. Such was the flow of 
Christian feeling, that the various members 
of the Church seemed of one heart and one 
mind. A single impulse nerved their ener- 
gies, and a strong, mysterious, yet glorious 
tie bound them in the bands of brotherhood 
and constituted them inmates of the house- 
hold of faith. They saw, as they had never 
done before, the influence of the Gospel in 
bringing aliens and strangers together, and 
making them one in Christ Jesus the Lord. 
The aged and the youth met on a com- 
mon platform, the rich and the poor bowed 
at the same shrine, and the blessing of God 
rested upon them all. With such associa- 
tions, they could not fail to be delighted. 

Among the older members whose acquaint- 
ance should be formed, were Mr. Yernon, 
Mr. Bissell, Mr. Palmer, Mr. Titus, and Mr. 
Howe, who were the class-leaders. These 
brethren had been long in the service of the 
Church, and, with perhaps a single excep- 


20 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


tion, were highly esteemed. Mr. Oliver 
was a local preacher of talent and influence, 
and an efficient co-laborer with the preacher 
in charge. In these respects he was the 
very opposite of Mr. Burns, another local 
preacher of several years’ standing. There 
was but a single exhorter, Mr. Ely, who, 
though a good man, was quite illiterate, and 
but poorly adapted to the congregations he 
sometimes attempted to serve. 

There was also a large number of godly 
women, who labored in word and spirit, and 
who were among the most efficient mem- 
bers of society. The Church at Berlin 
knew nothing of that fastidiousness which 
would exclude the sisters from the social 
services of religion ; and in both class and 
prayer-meetings they were generally active. 
To them this branch of Zion was greatly in- 
debted for its present prosperity. 

Including the number recently received, 
the Berlin station contained about two hun- 
dred and fifty members. Of these a few 


LIFE m THE LAITY. 


21 


were rich, possessing an abundance of this 
world’s goods ; and a few were poor, living 
in penury and want ; but the greater part 
belonged to what is known as the middle 
classes, not abounding in riches, and not 
especially suffering from their absence. It 
was, on the whole, a good charge ; though 
not without such evils as are incident to all 
similar organizations, and not free from the 
imperfections to which fallen humanity is 
ever subject. 


22 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


CHAPTEE n. 

TESTS OP CHARACTER — AN INCONSISTENCY — ITS INFLU- 
ENCE — A CHANGE OP PASTORS — THE ITINERANCY — 
BACKSLIDINGS. 

Every season of revival in the Church is 
followed by a temporary reaction. Tliis 
seems in a measure necessary for the trial 
of the faith and the more rapid growth of 
the virtues of such as have been recently 
converted. In this life most men are so 
slow to learn, that they need to be schooled 
in adversity as well as prosperity. There is 
also a demand that the chaff should be sepa- 
rated from the wheat ; and this cannot well 
be done without the application of tests that 
shall discover the character of each. 

Thus at Berlin, the protracted meeting 
had scarcely closed when some, who had 
run well for a season, went back and walked 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


23 


with the disciples no more. A few of the 
older Christians, also, who had been quite 
zealous during the revival, settled into a 
state of inglorious ease, and began to act as 
though the work which had been given 
them to do was fully accomplished. The 
number of such, however, was compara- 
tively small ; but the converts observed that 
they were those who, during the revival, 
had been most severe in denouncing the 
unfaithfulness of Christians, and upbraiding 
the Church for its past delinquencies. 
These persons seemed to look upon relig- 
ious duties as highly important, and to be 
attended to in their season ; and as the 
season was now past, they could turn 
their attention to secular things, and leave 
the Church to care for its own inter- 
ests. 

The influence of this class was especially 
deleterious. With them religion was an 
abstraction, and had little or nothing to do 
with a man’s life outside the house of wor- 


24 


LIFE m THE LAITY. 


ship, further than in the preservation of a 
tolerable morality. Mr. Ames, who took a 
comprehensive view of things, discovered, 
almost instantly, the absurdity of the profes- 
sions which these persons had made. To 
him, young as he was. in the Christian life, 
it was an enigma difficult to he solved. He 
believed them sincere, and yet felt the in- 
consistency of their position. Every defec- 
tion of this character produced a kind of 
moral shock, which tended to weaken his 
energies and cripple his faith. Had it not 
been for noble examples of the opposite 
character, he would doubtless have yielded 
to the current of temptation and been car- 
ried down the stream, until his soul was over- 
whelmed by the flood and involved in 
ruin. 

Between himself and his friend Holmes 
there were long conversations on this sub- 
ject. In the end the right conclusion was 
reached. They saw in the delinquents be- 
fore them persons of impulsive tempera- 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


25 


ments, who, under the influence of excite- 
ment, would go beyond their level and be- 
come happy, and confound that emotional 
flow of spirits with the idea of practical 
piety. To them this was pure and undefiled 
religion ; and when the circumstances that 
fanned the flame ceased to exist, the flame 
itself went out, leaving the smothered em- 
bers to shoot forth at some future time with 
the same intensity as before. Doubtless, 
said they, these brethren will again be 
as active as ever. They mean well, and, 
through the mercy of God, may be saved at 
last. 

For this trial the converts were not all 
equally prepared. Indeed there were but 
few that, without experience, could make 
the requisite apology. On such minds the 
result was more unfavorable than at first 
might be supposed. Some, seeing the ex- 
ample and supposing it safe to follow, set- 
tled into a similar apathy ; while others had 
their confidence in Christian professions so 


26 


LIFE m THE LAITY. 


entirely shaken as to result in their total 
apostasy. 

The converts soon found another trial that 
they looked upon as equally serious. They 
were, without exception, strongly attached 
to their minister. Mr. Bliss had won them 
to Christ and instructed them in the great 
primary truths of religion. He was an able 
preacher, successful not only in leading sin- 
ners to the cross, but also in carrying them 
forward to the higher attainments of the 
Christian life. By his deep piety he had 
secured the affection of those around him, 
and had it in his power to mold them after 
the pattern of the Gospel, as could be done 
by no other hand. But the conference was 
soon to hold its session. It was his second 
year on the station, and he must close up 
his labors and remove from the scenes in, 
which ho had been so signally triumphant. 
Those whom he had brought into the 
Church were yet on probation, and could not 
be received into full connection during his 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


21 

stay. Many of them felt their destiny 
linked with his, and looked gloomily forward 
to the day of separation. 

To those not intimately acquainted with 
the itinerant system, it appeared highly im- 
proper that a change should be demanded. 
The most intelligent converts were of this 
class. 

“ Why . may not Brother Bliss remain 
with us,” said Mr. Ames to Brother Yer- 
non, his class-leader. ‘‘ Is there no possibil- 
ity of retaining him ?” 

“ The rule is imperative,” was the reply. 
“ ISTo preacher can stay but two years in a 
place.” 

“ I am sure it will never seem like home 
again,” said the ybung convert. “ I don’t 
understand the reason for such a rule, and 
can’t think it proper.” 

‘‘ It does seemi hard,” was the old gentle- 
man’s reply. “ When we have a man that 
we like, it w^ould be pleasant to keep him ; 
but the rule is not altogether arbitrary. 


28 LIFE IK THE LAITY. 

There are some substantial reasons on which 
it is based.” 

“ I can see no good reason why Brother 
Bliss should be taken from us.” 

“Nor I either, so far as this case is con- 
cerned, and we alone are interested. But 
this is not all. We are a connectional peo- 
ple. Our whole plan is formed on the prin- 
ciple of mutual sacrifices for the common 
good. The itinerancy has an adaptation to 
the wants of the world possessed by no other 
system, and it can be kept up only by fre- 
quent and uniform changes. There are 
many cases which require no small sacrifice, 
and ours is one of them ; and yet we should 
submit for the success of the whole.” 

“ But it seems too bad to have Brother 
Bliss sent away in the midst of his useful- 
ness. I believe he can do more good here 
than at any other place,” persisted Mr. 
Ames. 

“I have no doubt of that myself. To 
every general rule there are exceptions ; 


LIFE m THE LAITY. 


29 


but it will not do to legislate for them, dis- 
carding the principle involved. Besides, we 
do not change, on the average, much oftener 
than the other denominations.” 

“ I am aware of that ; but they change 
when there is a reason for it. I believe in 
changes when they are called for.” 

“Well, Brother Ames, let us consider this 
in another^light. Changes will occur, and 
is it not the better way to have them do so 
in accordance with some general rule ? In 
a settled ministry almost every change is a 
reflection on either the minister or his peo- 
ple. It implies difficulty, and seldom fails 
to engender contention and strife. Parties 
will be formed for and against every propo- 
sition of this kind, and disafi’ection will en- 
sue, let the decision be as it may.” 

“ I have seen something of this in our own 
village ; but how is this to be remedied ?” 

“It cannot occur with us, while we main- 
tain our rule. We never send a man away, 
or force him to resign. Nobody is dis- 


30 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


credited ; all is provided for, and generally 
all is satisfactory.” 

“Still I can’t look upon it as right that 
the people should have nothing to say in the 
selection of their pastors,” said Mr. Ames, 
rather changing the point. “ I am in favor 
of the itinerancy, but I think the laity should 
have a voice in this matter.” 

“ Let us see,” replied Mr. Yernon, “what 
sort of an itinerancy we should have with 
the people calling and settling their minis- 
ters. In the first place we should have to 
grant the preachers the same right to select 
their places.” 

“Yes, I suppose we should.” 

“And you would have them remain as 
long as both parties were satisfied, would 
you not?” 

“ As a general thing I would ?” 

Mr. Yernon smiled, and asked again: 
“Then where would our itinerancy differ 
from a so-called settled ministry? Every 
preacher would negotiate for his place, and 


LIFE m THE LAITY. 31 

every Churcli bargain for its pastor, and 
there would be — •” 

see rny mistake,” interrupted Mr. 
Ames; “you have driven me to this dilem- 
ma: either we must have the itinerancy, 
with its present or similar regulations, or 
not have it at all.” 

“Exactly,” responded Mr. Yernon. 

“Well, I cannot feel satisfied to part with 
Brother Bliss at any rate. I suppose we 
must, however.” 

It is not surprising that Mr. Ames, and 
others similarly situated, should view the 
subject in this light. IJnacquainted with 
the history of the itinerancy, and having no 
just conception of its achievements in the 
past, and finding, on their introduction to it, 
exactions of the most self-denying and cross- 
bearing character, they might well shrink 
back and utter a voice of complaint. Such 
was tlie disaffection of Mr. Holmes, that he 
declared he would leave and go to the Con- 
gregationalists as soon as Mr. Bliss was re- 


32 


LIFE m THE LATET. 


moved. He could not brook the idea of 
a stranger in the place of one so fondly 
loved. Further reflection led him to a dif- 
ferent conclusion. He believed the doc- 
trines of the Church of his choice, and was 
possessed of too much principle to subscribe 
to an opposite creed. 

Hot so with all. Several were induced to 
go away, preferring permanence, in less 
agreeable associations, to constant change 
in the society where they were converted. 
This was the case with Mr. Crosby and 
family, together with a number of the 
young people who belonged to what might 
be technically described as “ the first fam- 
ilies.” 

Still others, as Mr. Bliss was taken from 
them, sunk into a religious apathy from 
which it was impossible to arouse them. 
Hearly all stood ready to look upon the new 
minister with a jealous eye, as though an 
intruder were coming among them. This 
feeling was not confined to the members 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


33 


who had recently joined; it existed in a 
greater or less degree among all classes, 
though it was generally kept in subjec- 
tion to the authority which prompted the 
change. 

The conference met, and Mr. Bliss was 
sent away a distance of fifty miles. In his 
place came Bev. Mr. Oley, an excellent 
man and a good preacher. He manifested 
an ardent desire to meet the wants of the 
charge, and at once entered zealously into the 
work. Being an entire stranger, he could 
not mark the changes that were taking 
place, and, of course, lost the opportunity 
which he might have otherwise had of re- 
claiming the wandering and encouraging 
those that hesitated to go forward in the 
way of life. 

A few became thus entangled again in 
the yoke of bondage, and went back to the 
world. These, added to those who were in- 
duced to join other Churches, reduced full 
one half the number which it was at first 
3 . 


34 


LIFE m THE LATTY. 


expected would be received into Church fel- 
lowship. But with all these defections the 
revival was an invaluable blessing. To the 
Berlin Station it was the beginning of better 
days, and the dawning of a higher prosper- 
ity than had been heretofore enjoyed. In 
far less time than had been expected, Mr. 
Oley secured the affections of his people, 
and was loved as ardently as was his prede- 
cessor. Not that there was a transfer of re- 
gard from one to the other, by which the 
new minister displaced the old one, but 
rather that the hearts of the people were 
sufficiently capacious to give each a place. 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


35 


CHAPTEE III. 

A NEW STAND-POINT. — THE BOAKD OP STEWARDS — MR. VER- 
NON — MR. GRAY — FATHER WELLS — MR. PUTNAM AND 
OTHERS. 

Mr. Ames had been a member in full con- 
nection but a few months when he was ap- 
pointed to the important and responsible 
office of steward. His sound judgment, un- 
doubted piety, and correct business habits, 
abundantly fitted him for this position, 
though he entered upon it with no incon- 
siderable misgiving. About the same time 
his friend Holmes was elected one of the 
trustees of the church. They were thus 
brought into relations where they could be- 
come intimately acquainted with the affairs 
of the society, and judge of the itinerancy by 
observing its practical operations and mark- 
ing the influence which it constantly exerted. 


36 


LIFE m THE LAITY. 


They soon discovered that the polity of 
the Church was entirely peculiar. Hereto- 
fore they had looked upon certain points 
alone, and formed their opinion without 
having understood the reasons upon which 
they were based. They now saw that the 
system must be studied as a unit, that the 
powers and prerogatives conferred must ' be 
considered with reference to the guards and 
limitations enjoined. The exactions made 
of one party were found to be balanced by 
those required of another. They saw in the 
plan a general surrender of private and self- 
ish interests for the promotion of the public 
good. 

Occupying a stand-point where they could 
thus look over the whole ground, and enter 
ing thoroughly into the investigation, our 
friends found the Church invested with 
additional interest. As an aggressive 
power, its adaptation seemed complete. 
Its agencies for defense were also of the 
highest order, calling into requisition the 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 8? 

undivided energies of even its humblest 
members. 

Mr. Ames found in the board of stewards 
men of widely different characteristics. To 
each of them the reader shall have an intro- 
duction. Mr. Yernon was the oldest and 
most influential member. He was a man 
of considerable wealth, a quiet and unas- 
suming personage, in whose piety all who 
knew him had the utmost confldence. Mr. 
Gray was the richest man in the Church. 
He had begun poor, and worked his way 
along to his present position by close appli- 
cation to business and untiring energy in 
the execution of all his plans. Heputation 
charged him with being exceedingly self- 
ish, having an eye first of all to his own 
interests, which were to be promoted at all 
hazards. He was well versed in money 
matters, but lacked that general intelli- 
gence which can alone give enlarged views 
and promote an expansive benevolence. 
Mr. Toby was a man of limited means, but 


38 


LIFE m THE LAITY. 


thoroughly active in all departments. As a 
man and a Christian, the Berlin Station pos- 
sessed no member who was his superior. 
Father Wells, as he was familiarly called on 
account of his age, was the representative 
of old times ; at least, such was his claim, 
and it was not often disputed. His tempo- 
ralities were in a good condition, though, in 
the world’s parlance, he could not be ac- 
counted rich. Mr. Benton was reputed 
very zealous. Every camp-meeting abroad 
and every extra meeting at home testified 
to his activity. His professions were of the 
highest order, and his fearlessness in reprov- 
ing his brethren, by exposing their sins, 
knew no bounds. By many it was thought, 
however, that his Christianity was a little 
soured, and that he sometimes mistook his 
will for his conscience. The only remain- 
ing member, Mr. Putnam, was a man that 
it would be difficult to describe. He seemed 
to have no strong point on which the atten- 
tion could be fixed, and took no decided 


LIFE m THE LAITY. 


39 


part in the deliberations of the board. 
He would be best represented in the scale 
of numerals by a cipher standing solitary 
and alone. How he came to be appointed 
nobody knew, and why he was retained it 
was equally difficult to tell. Beyond occa- 
sionally passing the plate for a collection, he 
had never been known to act in promoting 
the temporalities of the Church. 

On the whole, this was a good board of 
stewards, fully equal to the average of the 
conference. That it might have been im- 
proved there is no doubt ; and it was gen- 
erally thought that Mr. Ames was an acqui- 
sition that would be highly beneficial. 

To these men were committed the finan- 
cial interests of the station. On them, more 
than upon any others, depended the perma- 
nent success of the Church. The itinerancy 
cannot succeed without competent stewards, 
who will look after its details and supply the 
demands made upon the department com- 
mitted to their care. 


40 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


CHAPTER lY. 

EEV. ME. OLEY — ONE-IDEA MEN — DISAFFECTION — SPEAK- 
ING EVIL OP THE CHURCH — AN ENCOURAGEMENT. 

Me. Oley remained at Berlin two years. 
Notwithstanding the fears that had been 
entertained at the time of his appointment, 
it was soon conceded that no abler man had 
served the charge. In all departments of 
the work he was eminently successful. The 
congregation continued large, the Sunday 
school was in good condition, the social 
meetings well attended, and every interest 
bore the impress of substantial prosperity. 

Still the society contained a few who 
were not satisfied. Like all other Churches, 
the Berlin Station had its one-idea men, 
each of whom wished the entire time and 
attention of the minister devoted to his 
favorite hobby. Brother Titus, the class- 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


41 


leader, was deeply interested in the success 
of class-meetings, and was disaffected that 
the pastor did not make them more promi- 
nent. He believed expulsion from the 
Church should follow all cases where they 
were neglected, and made bitter complaints 
because delinquents were allowed to re- 
main. In regard to the other means of 
grace he was not so particular. He was 
himself not unfrequently absent from the 
preaching, and even from the sacrament of 
the Lord’s Supper, and seemed to forget 
that these were ordained of God, while the 
other was instituted by man. 

Mr. How was a temperance reformer. 
He had seen and felt the evils of intemper- 
ance, and was all absorbed in efforts to 
effect their cure. To him it was a matter 
of great surprise that the minister did not 
preach often er on this subject. According 
to his view, it should be introduced into 
every Sabbath service and made the promi- 
nent topic of pnlpit discourse. 


42 


LIFE IK THE LAITY. 


Mr, Johnson was an abolitionist of the 
strictest sect. His mind was upon those in 
bonds, until, in spirit, he had become bound 
with them. That the preacher should ever 
pray or even exhort without alluding to the 
sin of oppression, was evidence of a want of 
interest in this great subject. He must 
surely be tinctured with pro-slaveryism thus 
to pass it by. In his view, a minister should 
cry aloud and spare not, that is, cease not, 
until this giant sin was removed. Since Mr. 
Oley did not do this, he was put down as a 
time-server, and classed with the unfaithful 
shepherds, upon whom rests the curse of 
God. 

Brother Benton was a zealous advocate 
of special holiness. Though he admitted 
that the minister preached faithfully on 
every point of practical duty, and urged the 
Church to an entire devotion of her ener- 
gies to the work of the Lord, yet, as he did 
not make use of certain controverted words 
and phrases, he was not a believer in full 


LIFE m THE LAITY. 


43 


salvation. This brother, and those who 
agreed with him, including Mr. Titus, were 
very ardent in prayer that the pastor might 
be brought into the enjoyment of perfect 
liberty. While upon their knees they not 
unfrequently told the Lord and the congre- 
gation of his defects, and administered re- 
bukes and uttered denunciations of the most 
painful character. 

A few others were displeased with the 
minister and his labors ; but the intelligent 
and really pious portion of the Church were 
highly gratified. Men who had minds 
capacious enough to grasp more than a sin- 
gle idea at a time, and comprehend the re- 
lation of one interest to another, saw a 
steady and uniform progress throughout 
the whole Church. They felt that God was 
with them, and rejoiced continually in the 
revelations of his love. 

That the men referred to were disaffected 
was nothing new nor strange. The time 
when they were satisfied was not within 


44 LIFE m THE LAITY. 

“the memoiy of the oldest inhabitant.” 
They invariably marked out the course in 
which a minister should walk, and the least 
variation from it called forth their anathemas. 
As w’e have seen, they each had a way en- 
tirely different ; being widely separated in 
their views and feelings, yet making com- 
mon cause in opposition to their pastor. 
Brother Oley felt their adverse influence, 
and, though not personally affected by it, 
saw with pain, that the zeal of these men 
had eaten them up, and that ‘ the cause 
which they professed to love, and in which 
he had an equal interest, was made to suffer 
from their ill-timed and unreasonable de- 
mands. 

To the credit of Berlin Station it should 
be stated that the number of this class of 
malcontents was quite limited ; yet it was 
sufiiciently numerous to counteract much 
good that might otherwise have been ac- 
complished. They, without exception, in- 
tended to be good men, and were, in fact, 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


45 


possessed of noble impulses ; but their en- 
thusiasm and the want of general informa- 
tion, from which it in a great measure re- 
sulted, had made and kept them what they 
were. 

The younger members of the society were 
greatly hindered by these brethren. Their 
attention was diverted and their efforts 
paralyzed by the constant detraction which 
they were compelled to hear. Mr. Holmes 
became at one time quite discouraged. If 
he believed the representations made, his 
faith in the pastor was shaken, and he felt that 
he could confide in no man if not in Brother 
Oley. If he discredited them, his confi- 
dence in the Church was weakened ; for he 
was not able to see how good men could in- 
dulge such a captious and carping spirit. 
Especially was he affected by the constant 
charge of unholiness made against both min- 
ister and people. 

If the Church is as bad as Brother Titus 
represents,” said he one day to his friend 


46 


LIFE Iisr THE LAITY. 


Ames, “wherein does it differ from the 
world r 

“I have thought of that myself,” was the 
reply, “ when I have heard him and Brother 
Benton speak and pray.” 

“ I don’t think I should have ever sought 
religion if such representations had been 
made before I was converted,” continued 
Mr. Holmes. 

“We should have had poor encourage- 
ment truly,” said Mr. Ames. 

“Tliere is not much to encourage us if 
these representations are correct.” 

“ I don’t think they are correct.” 

“ISTor I either. We have become ac- 
quainted with too many good members to 
believe this. I wish those brethren would 
not always look on the dark side, and turn 
our attention there also,” added Mr. Holmes. 

“Brother Yernon says this results from a 
want of faith and love,” answered his friend; 
“ and I presume he is correct.” 

“But they profess to be perfect in love.” 


LIFE ESr THE LATTY. 


47 


“ Professions don’t amount to much when 
a man says he loves you, and at the same 
time does all he can to detract from your 
character and standing.” 

“ That’s very true.” 

“ It seems that these men do so whenever 
they speak of the Church.” 

“Yes; and I have been greatly afflicted 
by it,” said Mr. Holmes. 

“ I believe there are a great many good 
men in this Church, and I don’t intend to 
give up my religion,” answered Mr. Ames 
emphatically. 

“Hor I either,” said Mr. Holmes, in a 
more determined tone. 

Thus they strengthened each other. The 
brethren who were ever criticising the 
preacher and finding fault with his adminis- 
tration could have hardly realized the influ- 
ence they were exerting. They frequently 
warned the converts that they would find 
trials in the way, without once suspecting 
that they were doing more than all others to 


48 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


fulfill their predietions ; yet such was the 
case. iN^othing can sadden the heart of a 
true disciple or dampen his joys more com- 
pletely than to hear older Christians speak- 
ing lightly of the Church and its ministers. 
This is especially true when those persons 
profess superior piety, and have the confi- 
dence of such as hear them. 


LIFE m THE LAITY. 


49 


CHAPTER Y. 


THE APPROACHING CONFERENCE — NOVELTY — DISCUSSION OP 
MINISTERIAL CHARACTER — A MISTAKE — FAREWELL TOKEN 
— MUTUAL PLEASURE. 

The approach of another session of the con- 
ference 'awakened considerable uneasiness 
among the members of the Berlin Church. 
Many of them were just becoming ac- 
quainted with the retiring pastor, for Mr. 
Oley’s term was about to expire, and were 
beginning to appreciate his merits, so as to 
realize the loss they were to suffer. From 
the beginning they had respected him for 
his talents and industry, and were now 
learning to love him as a counselor and 
friend. To this class, and it embraced the 
better part of the station, the thought of 
separation was exceedingly painful ; and 
among them the itinerancy, with its merits 


50 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


and demerits, was discussed as freely as 
ever. Many a remonstrance went up from 
the hearts of the people as the change was 
about to he made, and many a secret 
prayer was offered that the time of minis- 
terial service might he extended, as was in 
some quarters already proposed. 

Still, the people were loyal to the 
Church. There was no disposition to hin- 
der the legitimate workings of the plan 
that had been adopted. They felt that 
while the rule remained, it must be kept; 
and most of them possessed sufficient dis- 
cernment to see that it was of no avail to 
murmur or complain. With but few ex- 
ceptions, a change to three or five years 
was thought desirable ; but it was to be 
sought in the way provided by the eccle- 
siastical constitution to which they were 
subject. 

A small number only were pleased with 
such frequent changes. Some loved change 
for the novelty of it, and were always more 


LIFE m THE LAITY. 


51 


active with a new minister than with an 
old one. When a stranger came on the 
station their zeal knew no limit; but no 
sooner did he become fairly settled and 
prepared for his work, than they began to 
wonder who would be his successor. Their 
interest in the next preacher caused them to 
forget the present incumbent, and led them 
to look anxiously forward to the day of 
change. Thus they were constantly un- 
settled. Every minister in the surround- 
ing country was in turn discussed and 
passed upon with an air of authority that 
seemed to give the matter a final settle- 
ment. Reports would go out that the 
Berlin Station wanted Brother A. next 
year. In a few days another would be in 
circulation that Brother B. was their man, 
and that they were especially anxious not 
to have Brother C. Soon it would be said 
that they had settled on Brother D., and 
thus a long list would be gone through 
with, when, in fact, the Church knew 


52 


LIFE m THE LAITY. 


nothing of the matter. The uneasy spirits 
had simply spoken, and made an exhi- 
bition of their uneasiness. They had mis- 
taken themselves for the society, and dis- 
graced the Church by the proclamation of 
their wild and senseless vagaries. 

As Mr. Oley was to leave in the course 
of a few weeks, his friends resolved to give 
him an expression of their regard for him- 
self and family, by some substantial tokens 
that might, at the same time, add to his 
convenience and comfort. The young men 
took the lead, and furnished him a valuable 
watch, with an appropriate inscription, 
while the ladies presented Mrs. Oley with 
a rich dress and other articles of a corre- 
sponding character. These were given 
not simply for their intrinsic value to the 
preacher, but as an assurance that his 
labors had been appreciated, and that he 
carried with him the respect and confi- 
dence of those whom he had served. 

As had been supposed, Mr. Oley viewed 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


53 


this as the most important consideration 
involved. He knew that ungenerous feel- 
ings had been entertained bj the class to 
whom reference has been made, and, at the 
same time, had no means of knowing the 
extent to which they might be indulged. 
Situated thus, an incident which brought 
to him a voluntary offering from his people, 
that was intended as a mark of respect and 
a token of affection, furnished great en- 
couragement. 

It was also a pleasure to the donors. 
They felt that the act had cheered the 
pastor’s heart, and rejoiced that they were 
able to lighten the load that sat so heavily 
upon him. With the result, it would be 
difficult to tell which party was most high- 
ly gratified. Under such circumstances, it 
was blessed both to give and receive, and 
the Gospel rule alone can determine who 
received the highest reward. 

These gifts were bestowed at what was 
denominated a farewell visit. A consider- 


54 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


able number of the contributors assembled 
at the minister’s house without having ac- 
quainted him with the ulterior object of 
their call. Brother Yernon, though quite 
along in years, had not become superan- 
nuated in good works, and was among the 
happiest participants of the visit. His 
genial smiles had driven many a cloud 
from the pastor’s brow, and his kind offices 
had, through a long and useful life, cheered 
the hearts and sustained the hands that 
seemed ready to sink. The party on this 
occasion was chiefly under his guidance, 
and greatly indebted to his kind attentions 
for its happy results. 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


55 


CHAPTEE YI. 


THE PREACHER’S SALARY — RAISING A DEFICIENCY — EX- 
CUSES — SCHOOL FOR THE STUDY OF HUMAN NATURE — 

LESSONS. 

A FEW days previous to the close of Brother 
Oley’s term of service, an official meeting 
was called to take into consideration the 
financial affairs of the station. It was ascer- 
tained from the reports that there was quite 
a deficiency on the preacher’s salary yet 
unprovided for, and it was proposed to de- 
vise means that it might be met before the 
session of conference. Mr. Yemen made a 
statement of facts, and concluded by saying, 
“We must not let our preacher go away un- 
paid. As a Church we are able to give our 
pastor a comfortable support, and should do 
so cheerfully.” 

“ I had hoped,” said Brother Gray, “ that 


56 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


we should come out even this year. I am 
getting tired of making up deficiencies. 
Brother Oley ought to have his pay, how- 
ever.” 

“ Well, how do you propose to raise it?” 
asked Mr. Benton. 

As no one made an immediate reply, the 
question was repeated. 

“We must put our hands in our pockets 
and pay it,” answered Mr. Yernon. “The 
Church has enjoyed the benefit of Brother 
Oley’s labors, and should he willing to re- 
munerate him.” 

“I hope he hasn’t been preaching for 
money,” put in Mr. Benton, in an under- 
tone. 

“We ought to pay Brother Oley twice as 
much as we do, and we could just as well as 
not if we were disposed to,” said Mr. Ames. 

“ I’d like to know how it would be raised,” 
retorted Mr. Gray, who had always advo- 
cated a reduction in the minister’s salary. 

“ There is no difficulty in that only as it 


LIFE m THE LAITY. 


57 


exists in our disposition,” said Mr. Yernon, 
mildly; ‘‘we are able, and, I trust, willing 
to do what is right in this matter.” 

“ I move that we open a subscription and 
make up the balance,” said Mr. Toby. 

“ And the same ones that signed before 
will have to sign again,” said Mr. Gray. 

“ Certainly,” was the reply. “ I recollect 
when you put your name to the paper at 
the beginning of the year, you said you 
would put down more if you did not expect 
to be called upon to make up a deficiency 
in the end ; and so with several others. 
We simply saved a portion of what we 
thought we ought to pay for just such a 
time as this.” 

“Well, well, go on,” said the rich stew- 
ard, “ and see how it will come out.” 

After a little parleying, the motion was 
agreed to, and as Mr. Ames was the youn- 
gest member of the board, and had shown 
considerable interest in the matter, he was 
appointed to draw up and circulate the 


58 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


paper. Taking a pen, he drew a subscrip- 
tion and proposed to begin on the spot. 
Knowing Mr. Gray to be the wealthiest 
man in the Church, and encouraged by the 
remark of Brother Toby, who had thus far 
attended to this business, he first handed the 
paper to him, with the request that he 
should head it. 

“ Ko, no,” said he ; “ go on and get what 
you can ; I’ll see by and by.” 

“But I want your name. Brother Gray. 
You made the motion that I should circu- 
late the subscription, and you certainly 
ought to help carry out the plan.” 

“I shall not sign anything; I’ll give 
something before Brother Oley goes away, 
but won’t put it down,” was the answer. 

A little mortified at this refusal, he turned 
away and gave the paper into the hands of 
Mr. Yernon, who, without a word, put a 
liberal sum opposite his name, and passed it 
on to Mr. Palmer and one or two others, 
who did the same. As it came to Brother 


LIFE ESr THE LAITY. 


59 


Titus he shook his head, with the remark, 
“ N'o, I believe I shall not give anything.” 

“Why not?” said Mr. Ames, looking 
quite surprised. 

“ I think he has had enough.” 

“ He is behind a hundred and fifty dollars 
of enough to meet his expenses.” 

“Then he must curtail his expenses,” 
was the dry answer. 

“ I don’t know how that could be done. 
Yery few of us live on as small a sum as we 
allow him, providing it is all paid,” said Mr. 
Ames. “Besides, I believe you were one of 
the committee to estimate his expenses at 
the beginning of the year, and you fixed 
upon this sum as necessary to carry him 
through.” 

“Well, I have done all I shall. I have 
not enjoyed his preaching much.” 

“ He is certainly a good preacher.” 

“ He may be for some, but he is not for 
me,” was the reply. 

The young steward was greatly hurt at 


60 


LIFE m THE LAITY. 


this demonstration. Brother Titus professed 
to enjoy an unusual amount of religion. 
He seldom spoke in class or prayer meet 
iiig but that he represented himself as 
given up to God in a peculiar sense. All 
that he had was upon the altar, consecrated 
to his Master’s service. These professions, 
put in contrast with his present conduct, 
looked so absurd and meaningless that Mr. 
Ames felt his confidence greatly shaken. 

Mr. Benton sat next. “I have paid all 
I shall,” said he, when the paper was pre- 
sented. 

“How much is that?” inquired Brother 
Toby, who, as treasurer, was familiar with 
the facts. 

“ I don’t remember now.” 

“Well, I do,” was the response; “it is 
just one dollar.” 

The brother looked a little confused, but 
handed the paper along without any further 
reply. Mr. Ames thought of the many 
severe reproofs to which he had listened 


LIFE m THE LAITY. 


61 


from Brother Benton, and the claims to a 
high state of religious enjoyment which had 
been persistently put forth. Every one 
knew that Mr. Benton was well off, and 
could pay if he chose. Covetousness was 
seen to be at the bottom of the affair, and 
in more minds than one the unwelcome con- 
clusion was reached that he did not live up 
to his professions. 

Mr. Putnam could not be induced to say 
whether he would give anything or not. 
“ ni see. I’ll see,” was his only response ; 
and with this reply, which was, under the 
circumstances, equivalent to a refusal, the 
matter was dropped. 

JSTot overmuch encouraged by his success 
in the official board, Mr. Ames went out 
among the members to seek the balance. 
The greater part responded honorably to the 
call ; but he found enough in the course of 
his tour to try his faith and jeopardize his 
patience. He was an ardent admirer of 
Mr. Oley, and had supposed that others 


62 


LIFE m THE LAITY. 


loved him as well as he did. As a general 
thing he found this to be true ; but his as- 
tonishment knew no bounds at the variety 
of complaints that were made as excuses for 
not contributing to his support. Brother 
Walton thought the preacher had not visited 
him as often as he did some other members ; 
Brother Jones had heard him laugh in com- 
pany with some unconverted persons, and 
did not think it his duty to give to a minis- 
ter so light and trifling ; Sister Smith would 
do nothing, because Sister Ellet had been 
talking about her, and her feelings were 
hurt; Sister Ellet could not contribute so 
long as Sister Smith was in the Church ; 
Brother M’Donald would not give to one 
who lived in better style than he could 
afford to ; Mr. How said the preacher had 
not done his duty on the temperance ques- 
tion; Brother Johnson made the same 
assertion as to abolitionism ; and thus 
one after another offered excuses by which 
to save a little money and rob the servant 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 63 

of God of that to which he was justly en- 
titled. 

In the midst of the discouragement of 
Mr. Ames, Brother Yernon met him and 
congratulated him rather playfully upon 
the advantages which he possessed for the 
study of human nature : ‘‘ I never profess to 
know a man until I have presented him a 
subscription paper and obtained his answer,” 
said he. 

“I confess I have learned some things 
since I began this work,” replied Mr. Ames. 
“ I have been greatly disappointed in re- 
gard to some of our brethren.” 

“I knew you would be,” said the old 
gentleman, laughing. 

“Some people talk one thing and do 
another,” added the steward. 

“I^ever judge a man, nor form your 
opinion of his religious attainments solely 
by what he says in church. Persons who 
are there sincere in wliat they say, are, 
nevertheless, often mistaken, and need the 


64 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


application of some other test. The one 
you carry is a very good touchstone, and 
on its application has exposed the spurious- 
ness of many a man’s pretensions.” 

“You will never get me at this business 
again,” said Mr. Ames. 

“We will look to that,” added his friend, 
rather shrewdly, as he ran his eye over the 
paper, and saw at a glance that he had suc- 
ceeded finely. 

We will not follow Mr. Ames in the 
further prosecution of his work. To him it 
was new business; and no man who has 
not circulated a church subscription can 
appreciate his feelings. By the way, this 
kind of a subscription is different to most 
men’s minds from any other. A great 
many Church members will give to an 
agricultural society, invest money freely in 
the wildest and most uncertain specula- 
tions, and lose their hundreds and thou- 
sands, contribute for all sorts of public 
improvements, and sacrifice freely for their 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


66 


friends, that are all aghast at the thought 
of paying from ten to fifty dollars to the 
Church. The claims of the Gospel to a 
man’s purse are made subordinate to every 
other demand. According to their view, 
the claims of the world have their basis in 
the principles of justice, those of religion in 
generosity, and “ we must be just before we 
are generous.” 

Never was there a greater mistake than 
is generally involved in the use of this 
adage. No man is doing simply a favor in 
supporting the Gospel. It must be done 
liberally, or the claims of justice are not 
met. In this respect, charity and alms- 
giving are out of the question. There is 
no more generosity in the act of paying 
the preacher than in footing the bills of the 

tailor or the merchant. 

5 


66 


LIFE m THE LAITY. 


CHAPTER YII. 

EEV. ME. WILSON — FIEST IMPEESSIONS — VAEIETY OF OPIN- 
IONS — A DECLENSION — REMEDY. 

Me. Oley went from his charge to the 
conference with many assurances that he 
bore with him the love and gratitude 
of his brethren. His pastorate at Berlin 
had brought him into joyous associations, 
and gained him many valuable friends. 
It would have been pleasant indeed to 
have remained with them, and continued 
to share in their sympathies and their 
counsels, but this was impossible. The 
great itinerant wheel was about making its 
annual revolution, and his steps were sure 
to be turned to a different locality. 

As he left his station, the usual parting 
scenes were witnessed. Many of the people 
felt they were suffering a loss that could 


LIFE IN THE LAITY, 


67 


not be made up. Most of them, however, 
assumed a kind of stoical indifference that 
enabled them to saj, ‘‘It is according to 
our rules, and we have no reason to com- 
plain,” With but few exceptions this feel- 
ing was wholly assumed. The number of 
persons is extremely limited that can allow 
ties of this character to be rudely sundered, 
and find no rising murmur within. Multi- 
tudes may submit without the utterance of 
a single complaint, because they think the 
result, on the whole, to be for the glory of 
God. But to the feelings of the people in 
general it is a sacrifice of the severest char- 
acter. 

The Rev. Mr. Wilson was appointed his 
successor in charge of the Berlin Station. 
The news was first received from a preacher 
who was passing through the village on the 
way to his own appointment. “ Who is Mr. 
Wilson?” was the first inquiry from the 
lips of every one who heard the tidings. 
No one seemed to be acquainted with him, 


68 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


though several recollected having seen his 
name in the Conference Minutes. He was 
a total stranger to the charge, having never 
labored in that section of the work. 

Some ten days after word was received 
of his appointment, the new minister made 
his appearance. He first called on Brother 
Yernon, who extended to him and his 
family a cordial welcome. This excellent 
man had entertained so many preachers in 
his day that it had ceased to he an em- 
barrassment. Ho one came to his dwell- 
ing that he was not prepared to receive, 
and to whom he did not extend a hearty 
greeting. 

Word passed rapidly from house to 
house, until it was generally understood 
that the preacher had come. All were 
anxious to see and hear him, for though 
he was a stranger, he occupied a relation 
to them of the utmost importance. As 
might be expected, he was not in favorable 
circumstances to make a good impression. 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


09 


With the labor of attending conference, 
packing and unpacking goods, he was well 
nigh worn down, and could not be expected 
to appear like himself. 

Various were the opinions formed and 
expressed as he was introduced to one after 
another of his parishioners. 

“ He looks pretty rusty,’’ said Mrs. Gray, 
on her return from a call at Brother Ver- 
non’s. 

“I guess he is rather backwoodsy,” put 
in one of the daughters, who had accom- 
panied her. “ I hope he will dress better 
than at present if he is going to stay 
with us.” 

“ I don’t like the looks of his wife,” said 
Mr. Gray, who was also one of the party ; 
“ she don’t look to me as if she was econo- 
mical. I hope we are not going to have 
another extravagant minister’s wife,” he 
continued, keeping his eye, as usual, on the 
dollars and cents. 

“He don’t look as if he could preach 


70 


LIFE m THE LAITY. 


much/’ said Brother Bissell to Mr. Burns, 
the local preacher, as they met in the street. 

“ISTo, that he don’t,” was the reply. 
‘‘We shall have dry times this year, you 
may rest assured. I did hope we should 
get a good man for once.” 

“Well, he may be goody for all I know,” 
answered Mr. Bissell. 

“I mean a good preacher,” responded 
Brother Burns. “We don’t get any such 
men here as in the old country, I can tell 
you. If you could only hear Bunting and 
Dr. ’Annah, or Brother Harthur, you would 
think so too.” 

“ Our new preacher isn’t very spiritual,” 
answered Brother Benton, as he was in- 
quired of by Mr. Oliver, the other local 
preacher. “I was with him some time 
yesterday, and he scarcely introduced the 
subject of salvation at all. . I had hoped we 
should have a holy man this year; but it 
seems the preachers are not much better 
than the people.” 


LIFE m THE LAITY. 


71 


“ Perhaps he will be all you desire when 
you hear him, and get acquainted,” ven- 
tured Brother Oliver. 

“ IS’o, no ; not that. I can tell what a 
man is as soon as I see him. He is not 
the man for, this place, that’s certain. We’ll 
have to dig him out, and get him baptized, 
before anything is done.” 

“I like him first rate,” said Brother 
Toby, who came up in time to hear the 
last remark. “ I have decided long ago to 
like all the preachers that are sent to us. 
That is the only way to get along and enjoy 
one’s self in the Church.” 

‘‘ Yes,” answered Brother Oliver, that 
is undoubtedly the better way.” 

‘‘Brother Wilson is a good man,” said 
Mr. Yernon to his friend Ames. “I am 
greatly pleased with him and his family, so 
far as I can judge from our brief acquaint- 
ance.” 

“He may be all you say,” replied Mr. 
Ames ; “ but we can’t always help our 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


12 

likes and dislikes. I don’t think he will 
be Brother Bliss or Brother Oley to me. 
Still, I am going to hope for the best.” 

“I called on him,” said Brother Holmes, 
‘‘and think he appears very well. If we 
must have a change, I am satisfied thus far 
with Brother Wilson.” 

“ He is not sociable ; I could scarcely get 
him to talk about the afiairs of the station,” 
answered Brother Titus, when inquired of 
as to his opinion. “I tried to draw him 
out on a good many points, to see what he 
thought of such management as we have 
had at Berlin, but could get nothing out of 
him. He’ll prove a dry stick. I’ll ven- 
ture.” 

Thus opinions were freely expressed by 
nearly all parties. In some minds preju- 
dices were already formed, that it would 
take weeks and months to remove. In the 
mean time the whole congregation were 
looking forward to the coming Sabbath 
with great interest. In this feeling no one 


LIFE m THE LAITY. 


73 


shared more fully than did the pastor. He 
felt the delicacy of his position, and was 
embarrassed by the circumstances with 
which he was surrounded. Brother Yer- 
non did all in his power to prepare the way 
for him, and encourage him in his arduous 
work. His friendship and unaffected sym- 
pathy proved an invaluable support. 

The Sabbath came, and Mr. Wilson made 
his first appearance in the pulpit. It was a 
bright, beautiful morning, that called for a 
tribute of praise from all God’s creatures, 
and an unusually large number were found 
in the house of God. Mr. Wilson entered 
the pulpit, evidently laboring under much 
embarrassment. He preached a plain, 
practical sermon, without any effort at 
display, and which, on ordinary occasions, 
would have been well received. As it was, 
it called forth a vast amount of criticism. 
Every hearer had an opinion to express ; 
and with the majority it was unfavorable. 
A number of leading brethren were sure 


74 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


the congregation would run down under 
such preaching, and made no scruple in 
giving utterance to their sentiments, even 
in the presence of unconverted persons. 
Others spoke encouragingly ; and still 
others thought it best to wait a little be- 
fore their minds were made up. They felt 
that wise conclusions could be reached only 
by waiting for opportunities not yet en- 
joyed. 

Several distinct results were immediately 
apparent from this change of pastors. The 
first has been already seen in the uneasi- 
ness and restlessness introduced among the 
members. From this sprang several others. 
The unconverted part of the congregation 
lost their interest in the Church. If the 
members had sufficient cause to be dissatis- 
fied, it was certainly enough to alienate 
them, and a number of families ceased 
their regular attendance on the means of 
grace. Some of these were liberal sup- 
porters of the Church, and bade fair in the 


LIFE m THE LAITY. 


75 


future to become valuable members. They 
were not driven away so much by any- 
thing they had seen in the new minister, 
as by the criticisms which the brethren, 
who were supposed to know all the facts, 
were making in their hearing. Some of 
them went to other denominations, some 
stood aloof, and some became afterward 
reattached to the congregation, from 
w^hich they now withdrew their attend- 
ance. 

There was also some backsliding among 
the members. Several who were weak 
and wavering were now totally discour- 
aged. The class-leaders might have saved 
them to the Church if they had acted faith- 
fully in their capacity as preachers’ assist- 
ants ; but, unfortunately, one or two of 
them were among the loudest of those who 
were producing this very result. Ko great- 
er calamity can befall any Church than the 
appointment of a captious, fault-finding 
class-leader. Brother Titus and Brother 


76 


LIFE m THE LAITY. 


Benton were not the men to encourage the 
doubtful to hold on amid a storm which 
they themselves had in great part pro- 
duced. A few hopes were, therefore, 
wrecked, and immortal life snatched, as it 
were, from the possession of such as fell 
an easy prey to the fell destroyer. 

All these results would have been pre- 
vented by a proper reception of the new 
preacher. Mr. Yernon and others saw and 
felt this fact, but could afford no remedy. 
They did what they could, and were con- 
scious of the Divine blessing in sus- 
taining the servant of the Lord, who 
came among them as a pilgrim and a 
stranger. 

Mr. Wilson could not fail to see the in- 
fluence exerted, and be affected by it. He 
was pained, and partially discouraged by 
the evident decline of his congregation, 
and the coolness with which a portion of 
his brethren had received him. The reason 
of all this he could not explain, and having 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


77 


no tried and intimate friend on whom he 
could rely, he kept his reflections to ‘him- 
self, and went forward as best he could 
in the work to which he had been ap- 
pointed. 


78 


LIFE m THE LAITY. 


CHAPTER YIII. 


LOSS AND GAIN — A REACTION — REPAIRING THE PARSONAGE 
— SELF-DENIAL OP THE FATHERS — FURNITDiRE — THE 
FESTIVAL — RENEWED PROSPERITY — ITS CAUSE. 

Hot many months had elapsed before it 
was conceded that Mr. Wilson was a most 
excellent pastor. He was not a great pul- 
pit orator ; in this respect not equal to his 
predecessor ; but he preached well, and 
ministered ably to the wants of the people. 
The congregation assumed its wonted tone 
of satisfaction, though some families had, in 
the mean time, formed other associations, 
and were now beyond the reach of his in- 
fluence. In their place others became 
attached to the faithful minister, and were 
identified with the interests of the station. 
In this way the loss suffered was in a 
measure made up ; and yet it was none the 


LIFE m THE LAITY. 


79 


less a loss. These acquisitions would doubt- 
less have been gained had the old friends 
been retained, and thus an actual increase 
have been secured. As it was, nothing 
more could be done than to restore and 
keep the congregation to its wonted di- 
mensions. 

During this year it was thought best to 
rebuild the parsonage. The house that had 
been occupied thus far was small and in- 
convenient, though some thought it good 
enough for a minister. Brother Gray, es- 
pecially, could not see the necessity of so 
much expenditure; but when it was de- 
cided upon, he contributed toward carrying 
the enterprise to its completion. Brother 
Titus would give nothing, and Brother Ben- 
ton but little in proportion to his means. 
In the opinion of this class of Christians, 
ministers should not look for ease or com- 
fort in this life. Their reward was in 
heaven, not on earth. The fathers, who 
introduced the Gospel into this new and 


80 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


sparsely populated country, made great 
sacrifices for the cause, and these their 
sons should do the same. Instead of that, 
they were constantly calling on the people, 
and insisting that they should share the 
responsibility and burden of preaching the 
word. In their view the demands made 
were truly exorbitant, and the sacrifice too 
great to be endured. For a few years past 
the people had heard nothing but “Give, 
give, give.” 

Thus a few clamored whenever called 
upon to aid in the temporalities of the 
Church. Almost invariably their discourse 
would run into a eulogy of the fathers, 
when they grew eloquent in praise of the 
past and condemnation of the present. It 
did not once enter their minds that the duty 
of self-denial was as applicatory to them- 
selves as to the ministry. They seemed to 
argue that a man called to labor for God in 
the pulpit, must give up houses and lands, 
honors and riches ; that his fellow, called to 


LIEE ENT THE LAITY. 


81 


labor for the same Master in other portions 
of the vineyard, might abound in these 
treasures and gather riches and honor with- 
out limit. 

There was no other reason for such sacri- 
fices as they demanded of preachers of the 
Gospel. In the days of the noble pioneers 
who carried the tidings of salvation into the 
wilderness, it was a necessity that they 
should sufier, because they were almost 
alone in the work which they had under- 
taken. But the scene has changed. Liter- 
ally the Church is rich, and luxury abounds 
in all her borders. Her laborers, who go 
forth to sow the seed and gather the harvest, 
must go unpaid, if at all, for no other reason 
than to add to the gains of those whom they 
serve. 

Fortunately for the Berlin Church the 
number of such Christians was limited, and 
their infiuence circumscribed. The major- 
ity were of a different opinion. There were 
many among them who felt it not simply a 
6 


82 LIFE m THE LAITY. 

duty, but also a privilege, to provide as far 
as possible for the comfort of the pastor and 
liis family. They had no sympathy with 
that feeling which tells a preacher to trust 
in Providence for his living, in any other 
sense than they would instruct the farmer or 
mechanic to do the same. They were suffi- 
ciently well acquainted with the Scripture 
plan of salvation to know that the burdens 
of Christianity were to be no more confined 
to the few than were its blessings. 

When the parsonage was nearly com- 
pleted, it occurred to some of those who are 
always looking for opportunities to do good, 
that it ought to be furnished. It seemed 
too much to ask the itinerant to carry his 
heavy articles of household furniture from 
place to place, adding the unnecessary ex- 
pense to the wear and tear, when it could 
be so easily avoided. As the brethren had 
contributed freely to provide a house, their 
wives arnd daughters undertook the task of 
supplying it with such things as might tend 


LIFE m THE LAITY. 83 

most largely to relieve the hardships of an 
itinerant life. 

They accordingly organized a sewing 
society, and plied their needles with all dis- 
patch to aid in securing so desirable a re- 
sult. A subscription was also opened, and 
many who could not attend the society 
made up for the lack by contributing 
directly to its funds. In this way quite a 
little sum was secured against the time when 
it should be wanted. 

Having done what they could in this 
direction, the ladies determined to make up 
the balance by means of a festival. By un- 
wearied efforts the arrangements were made, 
a supper provided, and such refreshments 
prepared as were becoming the occasion. 
They then invited their friends to partake 
of the repast by paying for tickets of admis- 
sion, the proceeds to be applied to this ob- 
ject. Their call met with a hearty and 
liberal response. The gathering was had, 
an hour or two spent in social converse and 


84 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


in listening to remarks from the pastor and 
others, when the company dispersed, highly 
gratified with the occasion. They had not 
only aided in a good work, but had added 
mnch to their own stock of social enjoy- 
ment. 

By this means entire success was secured. 
The preacher’s home was furnished with the 
most cumbersome, and, at the same time, 
substantial and necessary articles of house- 
keeping. No one felt the poorer for what 
he had done, or seemed to regret his share 
of the work. The whole community ap- 
proved the act, because they saw, in the 
end accomplished, an exhibition of those 
principles which most highly adorn the 
Christian character. 

And yet all were not pleased. Brothers 
Titus, Benton, and some half dozen others, 
were greatly scandalized that members of 
the Church should make “ a party,” and talk 
and visit in so exact imitation of the world. 
They would have no sooner gone to the 


LIFE m THE LAITY. 


85 


festival than to a circus. Brother Benton’s 
holy horror was fully aroused. Every class- 
meeting was witness of his indignation. 
Reproofs, severe and unmitigated, were 
freely administered. He was instant in sea- 
son and out of season in rebuking so high- 
handed an offense. 

Had it not been for his well known covet- 
ousness, which was supposed to lie at the 
bottom of his conscientiousness, those who 
had done most in this matter would have 
felt highly aggrieved. As it was, they al- 
lowed his denunciations to pass with merited 
silence. He was doubtless sincere in his 
convictions, but had been schooled in a mis- 
taken theology. In fact he belonged to 
that class best described by our Saviour’s 
figure of straining at a gnat and swallowing 
a camel. 

The second year pf Mr. Wilson’s minis- 
try was blessed with a precious revival. 
Through the regular means of grace about 
forty persons were converted and added to 


86 LIFE IN THE LAITY. 

the Church. It was a valuable accession, 
and those who labored for the prosperity of 
Zion were greatly cheered. In things spirit- 
ual and temporal Mr. Wilson's term was 
highly prosperous ; and now that it had 
nearly expired, he was able to look back 
and reioice in the manifold mercies of 
God. 

Berlin could now take rank among the 
first-class appointments. The parsonage im- 
provement added much to its desirableness 
as a station, as it not only gave a home to 
the preacher, but told the spirit of the peo- 
ple. How much this had to do with the re- 
cent revival could not be easily determined; 
but those who have watched the course of 
events will not deny that an intimate con- 
nection usually exists between financial 
liberality and spiritual triumphs. 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


87 


CHAPTER IX. 

PETITIONING FOR A PREACHER — CONTENDING FOR A PRINCI- 
PLE — DIVERSITY OP OPINION — REV. MR, DUNN — A LOBBY 
MEMBER AT CONFERENCE — SUCCESS. 

As the session of the conference was about 
to be held, and it was known that Mr. Wil- 
son must go away and a stranger come in his 
place, the usual interest was awakened and 
the usual uneasiness experienced. Notwith- 
standing the lessons of the past and the as- 
surances furnished by the itinerancy as to 
the future, the members could not banish 
thoughts of care from their minds, or look 
with unconcern on so important a change. 

Brother Gray and some others were so 
thoroughly convinced of the necessity of 
having a good preacher for the next two 
years, that they thought it best to make 
their own selection and send a petition to 


88 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


the appointing power, thus virtually taking 
the matter into their own hands. They had 
no reason to complain of the men who had 
been sent them, and no especial cause of 
doubt but what equally good appointments 
would continue to be made ; yet it was 
thought to be an improvement becoming an 
age of progress to ask for the gratification 
of their own preference. An official meet- 
ing was accordingly called and the subject 
introduced. 

In the absence of the pastor, who usually 
presided. Brother Bissell was called to the 
chair, when a motion was made that an in- 
formal ballot be taken, as an expression of 
the preferences of those present. Brother 
Yernon was opposed to this action, as he 
could see no good likely to result from it. 
“It is,” said he, “an innovation on our estab- 
lished usages. The old plan has worked 
well, and there is no reason that demands a 
change. 

“We certainly ought to have something 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


89 


to say as to who shall serve us,” said Brother 
Gray. “Other charges petition, and have 
their choice, and why should not we ? So 
long as we have to pay the preacher we 
ought to demand one of the first class.” 

“I am in favor of the motion,” said 
Brother Ames, “ but hope no refiection will 
be cast on our former pastors. They have 
been good enough for any Church.” 

“ And so we shall continue to have good 
men if we let matters take the usual way. 
There are men appointed to the oversight 
of this work who know much more about 
the preachers than we, and can do better 
for us than we can do for ourselves,” said 
Brother Yernon. 

“I have no one in view that I desire 
above others,” said Mr. Ames , “ but I think 
the laity should have something to say in 
such a matter.” 

“ That’s it,” said Brother Gray ; “ it is the 
principle we are after.” 

“We care more for the principle involved 


90 


LIFE m THE LAITY. 


than anything else,” added Brother Benton, 
while several others nodded assent. 

“If there is anybody that should have 
their say in the appointments it is the peo- 
ple who have to pay the money,” put in 
Brother Titus. 

“ Yes, we ought to send up a petition and 
insist on its being granted,” added Mr. 
Gray. 

“I like the principle of equal rights as 
well as any one,” said Brother Toby ; “ but 
there are several things here to be taken 
into consideration. If the people claim the 
right of choosing their pastors, then the 
preachers must be awarded the right of 
choosing their places. These may both be 
said to be rights that belong to the parties. 
The itinerancy is based upon their relin- 
quishment for the good of the cause, in 
which each is supposed to have an equal 
interest. Now if we take back what we 
have given up, the preachers must be 
allowed to do the same, and there is an end 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


91 


of our system, and tlie practice of bargain- 
ing for men and places will become gen- 
eral.” 

‘‘.Yes,” said Brother Yernon. “ Suppose 
we select a man and he refuses to come; 
equal rights give him the same authority to 
decline that is given us to select.” 

“ But the preachers are bound to go 
where they are sent,” said Mr. Benton. 

“ Yery true,” resumed Mr. Yernon; “they 
are thus bound by the system to which we 
have referred. They have agreed to give 
up the right of choice on condition that we, 
the laity, do the same, but not otherwise. 
The action we propose is a repeal of the 
compromise upon which the itinerancy 
rests.” 

“Well, other charges petition, and so 
may we,” said Mr. Gray, without noticing 
the arguments advanced on the other side. 
“ I am not willing to submit any longer to 
having men sent here without our voice, 
while we have them to support.” 


92 


LIFE UN THE LAITY. 


The vote was taken and the motion car- 
ried by a large majority. They had a new 
parsonage and everything in good order, 
and must have their own way. Brother 
Benton acted as teller and collected the bal- 
lots, on which were written the names of 
such preachers as the different members 
desired. On counting them it was found 
that no unanimity of sentiment prevailed. 
No one had a majority or anything ap- 
proaching it. The second ballot produced 
a similar result. 

A discussion then arose as to the merits 
of the several candidates. Remarks were 
made for and against different preachers, 
whose reputation was handled with the ut- 
most freedom. When a name was proposed, 
those who favored some one else felt in duty 
bound to say all they could against him. In 
a little time more than one excellent herald 
of the cross had his usefulness destroyed 
within the bounds of Berlin Station; and 
still the carnage went on. Gossip of the 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


93 


worst kind was freely indulged, and every 
vague report winch Madam Kumor had 
seen fit to put in circulation was repeated 
with most sanctimonious airs. 

It was evident that no one of the candi- 
dates could be agreed upon, and Brother 
Yernon again proposed that the whole mat- 
ter be dropped ; but the majority had re- 
solved to petition. They began to look 
around for some one against whom no objec- 
tions could be raised. At length such a 
name was proposed. The Kev. Mr. Dunn 
was a prominent man in the conference, and 
generally took the first appointments. He 
had never been at Berlin, and was known 
there only by reputation. Brother Gray 
proposed his name, and all were convinced 
that it was the best they could do. He re- 
ceived a nearly unanimous vote, the peti- 
tion was made out, duly signed in behalf of 
the Church, and forwarded to the bishop. 

Fearful that the might not succeed, 
Brother Gray resolved to go up to the con- 


94 LIFE m THE LAITY. 

ference and lobby for the success of the 
enterprise. He did so, and carried his 
point. He came back highly elated with 
the result, and feeling assured that the 
future prosperity of Berlin Station was ren- 
dered certain. The appointment was highly 
flattered. It had demanded and secured a 
first-class preacher. 

Still there was a less general satisfaction 
than usual at the appointment of a new pas- 
tor. Many felt aggrieved that their favor- 
ite candidate had not been agreed upon, 
and argued with themselves that they had 
been slighted in having their opinions set 
aside. Against Mr. Dunn no man had an 
objection, and as all who favored petition- 
ing had consented to the arrangement, they 
were bound to make him welcome. 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


95 


CHAPTER X. 


THE FIRST QUARTERLY CONFERENCE — MAKING AN “ALLOW- 
ANCE” — A STRIKE — DISCUSSION — THE SALARY RAISED 
THE DONATION VISIT A MISTAKE CORRECTED. 

It was about two weeks after the session of 
the conference closed when Mr. Dunn, the 
recentlj-appointed pastor, made his appear- 
ance. He was well received bj all parties, 
and seemed disposed to enter at once upon 
his work. His family accompanied him, 
and, by the help of several brethren and sis- 
ters, their goods were soon unpacked and 
arranged in the parsonage, to the comfort 
of all concerned. Though nothing was said 
directly on the subject, some of the leading 
members thought they saw evidences that 
Mr. and Mrs. Dunn were not highly pleased 
with the arrangement which had brought 
them to their present position. The quar 


96 


LIFE m THE LAITY. 


terlj conference, whicli met a short time 
after, threw some light on the subject, 
and opened to the. Berlin official board a 
new chapter in the history of their sta- 
tion. 

Mr. Gray, who was now unusually active 
in Church affairs, was appointed by the 
conference, chairman of the committee to 
estimate and fix the preacher’s salary. The 
other business having been attended to, he 
made his report, fixing the allowance at the 
usual sum off four hundred dollars. This 
amount had been uniformly paid for the last 
ten years, and though the expense of living 
had nearly doubled, none of the members 
had proposed an increase. As was usual, a 
few desultory remarks were made, and the 
presiding elder was about to take the vote 
on the adoption of the report, when the Kev. 
Mr. Dunn asked if the committee and the 
conference had taken into consideration the 
circumstances of his family. 

“ I am not sure that you know them,” he 


LIFE m THE LAITY. 97 

added, “as I am a stranger, and no inquiries 
have been made.” 

“ That is om* regular salary here,” replied 
Brother Gray. 

“Then you allow all your preachers the 
same sum, giving a single man as much as 
one like myself, with a feeble wife and five 
children, do you ?” 

“We give four hundred dollars,” said Mr. 
Gray, with some emphasis and a great deal 
of dignity. 

“I suppose,” intei’posed the presiding 
elder, “ Brother Dunn cannot live on that.” 

“It is a delicate subject,” resumed the 
pastor, “but I must speak plainly. That 
sum will by no means meet my current ex- 
penses. I have the wages of a hired girl to 
pay, and, including her, eight persons in my 
family. My oldest son must be educated 
away from home, as there is no suitable 
school here, and the others must enjoy such 
advantages as the Berlin schools afibrd.” 

“We would feel it a privilege to allow 
7 


98 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


morej” said the chairman of the cora- 
inittee, “ but see no way in wdiich it can be 
raised.” 

“We have never paid more than that, 
and I think it is enough,” put in Brother 
Benton. 

“We would allow more if we only knew 
where the money would come from,” said 
Mr. Gray. “ It is doubtful whether we can 
raise even that this year. We have been 
taxed pretty heavily of late in refitting and 
furnishing the parsonage, and meeting other 
demands that come upon us.” 

“We certainly cannot go any higher,” 
said Brother Titus. 

“ Ho, that we can’t,” said Father Wells. 
“Preachers didn’t use to expect much of 
anything. When I first joined the Church 
they w'ent about on horseback and were not 
troubled with large families as now. I 
never used to pay but two shillings a quar- 
ter. I think every member ought to pay 
that willingly. A great many small suras 


LIFE m THE LAITY. 99 

^ut together amount to a large one in the 
-ond, you know.” 

“Well, brethren,” said the presiding 
elder, “ Brother Dunn is here, and must 
have a living. It is plain he will not he 
able to provide for his household out of four 
hundred dollars. I think you can add 
something to that. The laborer is worthy 
of his hire.” 

“It is not a lack of disposition, but a want 
of ability,” said Brother Benton. “We 
would give more if we could.” 

“ The committee were appointed to esti- 
mate Brother Dunn’s expenses, and not the 
ability of the station,” said the president. 

“ But we don’t want to promise more than 
we can pay,” rejoined Brother Gray. 

“ You can certainly make me a disciplin- 
ary allowance^'^ said the preacher. “ I must 
provide for my own house. I cannot con- 
sent to be worse than an infidel.” 

“Perhaps we can raise more,” replied 
Mr. Gray. “ I am sure we are willing the 


100 


LITE IN THE LAITY. 


preacher shall have all he can get. It is 
only a necessity that makes us fix the allow- 
ance at four hundred.” 

“I suppose the preacher will get just 
what you think proper to pay him,” said 
Mr. Dunn. “ When an allowance is being 
made out there is no necessity about it. 
You can estimate my expenses at just what 
they are likely to be as easily as at any less 
sum. Your failure to do so argues a want 
of disposition, not of means.” 

“ Eather plain talk, I should think,” said 
Brother Titus. 

“ I intend to talk plainly,” said Mr. Dunn, 
in a pleasant tone. 

“Well, now,” said Brother Yernon, “I 
have said nothing thus far, but I want to 
say a word ; I believe we can pay more just 
as well as not.” 

“Where will the money come from,” 
asked Brother Benton, fairly afii'ighted. 

“ From our pockets,” said Mr. Ames, in- 
terrupting the last speaker. “We are 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


101 


really too bad to pinch our preachers as we 
have done. Brother Wilson ran behind last 
year more than a hundred dollars.” 

“That was not our fault,” said Brother 
Gray ; “ we paid him all w'e agreed to.” 

“We ought to have agreed on a higher 
sum then.” 

“ He didn’t say anything but what he was 
satisfied,” replied Mr. Gray. 

“Ho, not he; “he was too good a man for 
that,” said Brother Wells. 

“ I am sorry to hear that my predecessor 
was allowed to suflfer among you,” said Mr. 
Dunn. “ I can’t consent to do so. As a 
Church you are able to support me. I an- 
ticipated this difficulty before I came. I 
was to have gone to Belmont, "where they 
would have given me eight hundred dollars, 
which I actually need ; but your earnest 
petition broke up the arrangement. I am 
here at your dictation, and will do all I can 
for you, and ask nothing but my living. 
That I must have.” 


102 LIFE IN THE LAITY. 

I believe the Discipline allows the quar- 
terly conference to fix the preacher’s salary,” 
rei)lied Mr. Gray, a little nettled. 

• “Not exactly ; it makes it the duty of the 
quarterly conference to estimate my table 
expenses and fuel, while the other items are 
already established. All I ask is a disci- 
plinary allowance.” 

“We have never had a preacher stand 
out before,” said Mr. Benton. “We don’t 
allow our ministers to sutfer.” 

“ I have nothing further to say,” quietly 
remarked Brother Dunn. 

“I move that the allowance be fixed at 
six hundred dollars,” said Brother Bissell. 

Brother Ames named eight hundred, and 
Mr. Yernon proposed seven hundred. “If 
we had allowed the appointments to take 
the regular course,” said Brother Yernon 
to Mr. Gray, aside, “we might have had 
a man with a smaller claim.” 

“I am glad of it,” said Brother Ames; 
“ we ought to pay eight hundred, and can 


LIFE m THE LAITY. 103 

do it^ if we have a mind to, just as well as 
not.” 

“Tlie preachers must study economy,” 
said Brother Gray. “ The fact is, some of 
them are really extravagant.” 

“ What does it cost you to live. Brother 
Gray, take one year with another?” asked 
Mr. Ames. 

“ I really don’t know.” 

“ Do you live on four hundred dol- 
lars?” 

“ISTo, I suppose not; but I don’t believe 
it costs me eight hundred, though perhaps 
it may.” 

“You have four in your family?” 

“Yes.” 

“ And are not obliged to employ help to 
do housework?” 

“No.” 

“ Well, don’t you think it must cost our 
pastor more to live than it does you?” 

“ But I live on my own money.” 

“ And so does he. It is not a gift that we 


104 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


are making. He labors for us and we pay 
him.” 

“I hope he don’t preach for money,” 
interrupted Brother Benton. 

“ I hope not either,” answered Mr. Ames ; 
“ and I conclude that he does not, or he 
would not come here for what we are dis- 
posed to give, when he might earn twice as 
much in business.” 

Brother Yemen’s motion to fix the salary 
at seven hundred dollars was finally put and 
carried, Mr. Gray and his friends not vot- 
ing. The presiding elder quietly remarked 
that the preacher contributed just one hun- 
dred dollars by this arrangement to the sup- 
port of the Gospel in Berlin ; and that if 
the others did as well, there would be no 
difficulty in raising the amount. 

Mr. Benton and Brother Gray now held a 
moment’s consultation, in a low whisper, at 
the conclusion of which the latter moved 
that the donation visit usually made be dis- 
pensed with this year, 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


105 


“ I see no reason for taking such action/’ 
said one. 

“Gentlemen,” said the preacher, rising 
from his seat, “ I have a word to say as to 
this matter. I do not ask a donation at 
your hands; indeed, I am not willing to 
receive one. I have asked my support as a 
right, and not as a favor. You can do no 
better thing for your minister than to give 
him a proper support without resorting to 
the expedient of a donation party. But 
when you vote his salary below a living 
figure, and then undertake to say that his 
friends shall not contribute to his relief, you 
show conclusively that you do not intend to 
give him a living. In fact this is an effort 
to hinder it. The plea of inability comes 
with a poor grace in such a connection. I 
think you have nothing to do with this mat- 
ter. Anybody that chooses has a right to 
donate to whom he pleases.” 

“ I suppose we have the matter in our 
own hands,” said Brother Titus. 


106 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


Yes ; but you will not have me in your 
hands, if you persist in this matter. I don’t 
ask you to say you will make me a dona- 
tion ; but you have no right to say that no 
one else shall.” 

“ That is not within our province, truly,” 
said Brother Yernon. 

At his suggestion the subject was dropped, 
and the conference soon after adjourned. 
In private conversation the presiding elder 
congratulated' Mr. Dunn on his firmness, 
and wished him success. Had this officer 
done his duty in the premises, he would 
have relieved the pastor from the necessity 
of interfering in the question of his own sup- 
port ; but he was a timid man, and gener- 
ally allowed things of this character to take 
their own course. He was glad, however, to 
see the right prevail, and in the instance 
before him was especially gratified. 

The brethren had scarcely left the church 
when several of them entered into a free 
conversation on the merits of the preacher. 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 107 

“ There is some nerve to that man,” said 
Brother Ames. 

‘‘I guess we have caught a Tartar,” re- 
sponded Mr. Gray. 

“We petitioned for him, I believe,” put 
in Mr. Yernon, with an expressive smile. 

“ One thing is pretty clear ; he preaches 
for money,” said Brother Benton. 

“We shall have no revival this year,” 
added Mr. Titus. 

“It wasn’t so in old times,” sighed Father 
Wells. 

“I am glad he stands up to the mark,” 
resumed Brother Ames. “We need just 
such a man.” 

“ You’ll never catch me petitioning for a 
man I don’t know again,” said Mr. Gray. 

“ Hor me, either,” chimed in several. 

“ All things shall work together for 
good,” said Brother Yernon playfully, as, 
in company with Brother Ames, he turned 
toward his home and left the party to their 
own reflections. 


108 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


The history of the quarterly-conference 
action was soon noised abroad, and in 
almost every disinterested mind the verdict 
was in favor of the new minister. The in- 
telligent classes saw in the action taken the 
way prepared for a more liberal and, conse- 
quently, a more successful policy in the 
management of the Berlin Church. With 
the exception of the two or three stewards, 
and some half dozen equally covetous neigh- 
bors, a general satisfaction prevailed. 

To some persons it may seem out of place 
for a minister to insist on a competent liv- 
ing from those he serves. Under some cir- 
cumstances it would be highly improper to 
make any such demand. Had Brother 
Dunn gone to a community of poor and 
ignorant heathen, and insisted on a compen- 
sation for his services, it would have been 
an outrage on the principles of the Gospel. 
But he came to a congregation of Christian 
men and women, whose duty it was to pro- 
vide for his wants, and who were abund- 


LIFE IN THE LAITY, 


109 


antly able to meet the obligation. Had 
he served them regardless of the perform- 
ance of what was enjoined upon them, he 
w'ould have injured both himself and his 
people. It is in vain to preach to a covet- 
ous man, hoping to do him good, without 
seeking to remove his covetousness. And 
so with a Church. Mr. Dunn’s position was 
correct in theory, as all were willing to 
admit. They that preach the Gospel should 
live of the Gospel. It is yet to be dis- 
covered how that which is right in theory 
becomes wrong in practice, or how a minis- 
ter of the Gospel errs in insisting upon the 
practical performance of that which is ac- 
knowledged to be theoretically correct. 


110 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 



i 


CHAPTEE XI. 

PLEADING POVERTY — PUNISHING THE PREACHER — MEAN- 
NESS — ITS INFLUENCE. 

It was soon ascertained that no embarrass- 
ment was likely to result from the increased 
salary which had been allowed for the pres- 
ent year. It was raised just as easily as the 
smaller one had been, though it is true the 
members were required to colitribute more 
liberally than heretofore. As was anticipat- 
ed by the more public-spirited portion of the 
Church, this was no disadvantage. Many 
of the members were hoarding up treasure 
almost without stint, and, mistaking covet- 
ousness for frugality, they held on to their 
gains with an astonishing tenacity. In the 
blunt language of Brother Toby, this was 
the largest, the richest, and the stingiest 
religious society in Berlin. 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


Ill 


And yet notliiiig was more common than 
to hear the brethren, especially the rich 
ones, pleading poverty. Brother Gray liked 
a display well enough in his personal mat- 
ters, but seemed to regard it as very desira- 
ble to make everybody believe that the 
Church was poor. In fact, as Mr. Holmes 
sometimes said, he made it a one-horse team 
and kept it so. Instead of magnifying the 
grace of God, and presenting a bold and 
fearless front to the enemy, he was ever in- 
sisting that the station was weak, and unable 
to accomplish the work whereunto it was 
appointed. 

As a consequence, others came to view 
it in a similar light. So long as the mem- 
bers depreciated the Church, and made it 
appear contemptible, it was not to be ex- 
pected that the wdcked should show it much 
respect. They withheld it the more when 
they knew that all this was merely an ex- 
cuse for throwing off Christian respons- 
ibilities, and an apology for the want of 


112 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


liberality which was everywhere mani- 
fest. 

Mr. Dunn proved a good preacher. He 
was one of those decided men, not easily 
trifled with, always ready to give and de- 
mand what was right. By this course no 
real friends were Tost, but many gained. 
Brother Titus, Father Wells, and others, 
who find fault with every preacher, found 
fault with him ; but in general he secured 
the respect and confidence of the commu- 
nity. His congregation soon visibly im- 
proved, and to the eye of the thoughtful 
observer, the Church was in a more pros- 
perous condition than it had been for several 
years. 

During the winter the friends began, as 
usual, to discuss the contemplated donation 
visit. As this was a custom of long stand- 
ing, practiced by all denominations in Ber- 
lin, it was almost universally expected to 
take place. Brother Yernon accordingly 
gave notice on the Sabbath that there would 


LIFE m THE LAITY. 113 

be a meeting of those favorable to such a 
visit, and invited all such to be present and 
participate in making the arrangements. 

At the appointed time one of the class- 
rooms was filled with those who responded 
to the call. To the surprise of the friends 
of the measure, who had called the meeting, 
there was soon manifest a determined oppo- 
sition to the plan. 

Brother Benton was greatly opposed to 
such parties. They were in too near con- 
formity to the world. The preacher did not 
need one at present, so far as he knew ; for 
though he lived neighbor to Brother Dunn, 
he had not heard him complain. This view 
was in perfect harmony with the feelings of 
Brother Titus, who had never attended on 
such an occasion and had no inclination to 
do so. Brother Gray kept silent, though it 
was evident he was the moving spirit of 
the opposition. Father Wells felt that the 
Church was being ruined by these constant 
calls for money. He was sure the preach- 
8 


114 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


ers were getting rich by such extravagant 
salaries. He remembered, with rapturous 
pleasure, the time when a hundred dollars a 
year satisfied them, and two shillings a 
quarter from each member was all that was 
demanded. For many years he had been 
hoping for the return of those good times, 
but the prospect was gloomier than ever. 
To his mind there was no means of making 
the preachers humble but by keeping them 
poor. This was one great’ duty of the 
Church, and he prayed that it might not be 
forgotten. 

Thus the discussion went on, mostly con- 
fined to those who opposed the donation. 
But when the vote was taken their counsels 
were found not to prevail. It was thought 
by some that most of these objections, so 
piously urged, grew out of a desire to pun- 
ish the preacher for insisting upon a salary, 
at the commencement of the year, that 
should be in some measure commensurate 
with his wants. When this failed Brother 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


115 


Gray brought forward another plan, which 
he had held in reserve until the decision 
should be made. It was that the proceeds 
of the visit be divided between the preacher 
and the Church. He reminded the friends 
present that it was necessary to make some 
repairs on the house of worship, and the 
money could be raised in no easier way than 
to give a donation to the preacher, as usual, 
and then appropriate one half of it to this 
purpose. On his motion the plan was finally 
adopted, as a kind of compromise measure, 
and the committee appointed to carry it into 
execution. They were to notify the pastor 
of the arrangement, but were not to inform 
the public. Outwardly it was to pass as all 
others had done, as if solely for the preach- 
er’s benefit. 

This plan was carried into effect. Mr. 
Dunn felt it to be an imposition on the 
community and an insult to himself, but 
allowed the managers to have their own 
way, as it was a matter in which he would 


116 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


Lave been charged with selfish motives had 
he made any remonstrance. He saw it to 
be the purpose of Brother Gray and others 
to take from him all they could, as they 
had ever been chagrined at their failure to 
bring him to their terms at the beginning 
of the year. 

It was a part of the plan that this item 
should not be made public. Studious efforts 
were made by its originators and advo- 
cates to keep its odious features from the 
knowledge of the people. But the desire 
was not successful, as Mr. Dunn, though ex- 
pressing no disapprobation, spoke of it in 
such a way as to reveal the facts as extens- 
ively as possible. Eventually the arrange- 
ment was understood by the whole com- 
munity, and the reputation of the Berlin 
Church was greatly injured. Indeed its 
best members had been heartily ashamed of 
the transaction from the beginning. They 
did not attempt to reconcile it with the 
stricter principles of honor, for every dis- 


UFE IN THE LAITY. 


117 


cerning mind saw at a glance that the 
scheme was unworthy the character of 
Christian men. 

As might have been expected, the influ- 
ence of this affair lasted for years. Brother 
Gray’s shrewd management had not only in- 
jured himself, but had also disgraced the 
Church to which he belonged. It was long 
quoted against the genuineness of religion 
by the enemies of Christianity, who did not 
fail to strengthen themselves thereby in 
their skepticism and doubt. 


118 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


CHAPTEK XII. 

BROTHER GRAY AT CONFERENCE REV. MR. SPENCER A 

CHEAP PREACHER PROCURED — THE LOAVES AND FISHES. 

At the close of a single year Mr. Dunn was 
removed to another charge. Though the 
majority of the congregation esteemed him 
highly as a minister and had desired his re- 
turn, there was, nevertheless, no inconsider- 
able number who were pleased with the 
change. As Brother Gray again attended 
the conference, and his views and feelings 
were well known, it was generally suspected 
that he had something to do with the mat- 
ter. So confident were Brother Dunn’s es- 
pecial friends of this, that they did not hesi- 
tate to express their disapprobation and 
charge the result upon the disaffected party. 
This gave rise to an unpleasant state of 
things in the Church, an^d led to remarks 


LP'E m THE LAITY^ 119 

from both parties contrary to the true spirit 
of Christian charity. 

When it was known who was the newly- 
appointed pastor the dissatisfaction was con- 
siderably increased. The Rev. Mr. Spencer 
had been on neighboring appointments for 
several years, and was well known among 
the Berlin members. He had never been 
successful in his work, though it might be 
difficult to assign a reason, as his talents 
were of no mean order, and he was gen- 
erally attentive and laborious. During the 
past year he had several times been heard 
to censure Brother Dunn for demanding so 
large a salary, and at times had strongly 
hinted to the disaffected stewards that the 
sum paid was unnecessary and uncalled for. 
His own allowance was put in contrast with 
that of his fellow-laborer, and his willing- 
ness to preach for a more limited sum was 
freely expressed. In this manner he had 
evidently sought to prepare the way for his 
own promotion, for it could not be concealed 


120 


LIFE m THE LAITY. 


that he desired an appointment to the Ber- 
lin Station. 

The more sensible portion of the Church 
were highly displeased with this course; 
but as it furnished an excuse for covetous- 
ness and harmonized with the spirit of the 
fault-finders, it had made sure in winning 
their love. Those who thus became his 
friends at Berlin resolved, if possible, to se- 
cure his services for the coming year, by 
displacing Brother Dunn to give him room. 
They were too shrewd to make the plan 
public, as they knew it would then fail, and 
they had accordingly proceeded in secret. 
The result was secured by representing to 
Brother Dunn, after he had reached confer- 
ence, that if he returned they should be 
obliged to make him a much smaller allow- 
ance than before, and he must come back 
with that understanding. This he could by 
no means consent to do, and Brother Gray, 
who was spokesman in the matter, was well 
aware of the fact from the beginning. It 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


121 


was simply a representation for the accom- 
plishment of an ulterior purpose, and, as he 
anticipated, it proved effectual. Brother 
Dunn, not knowing hut this was the general 
feeling of the Church, asked for a change, 
which was granted. Mr. Gray then ap- 
proached the presiding elder and expressed 
a preference for Brother Spencer. That 
officer was equally ignorant of the true state 
of the case, and as Brother Gray was pres- 
ent in behalf of his station, though he did 
not claim to be officially appointed, his sug- 
gestion was treated with respect and his 
wish finally granted. 

The distinguishing feature which quali- 
fied Mr. Spencer for his present position, 
was his ability to live on a small salary. 
Himself and wife, both in excellent health, 
constituted his entire family. As a matter 
of course his expenses were small in com- 
parison with those of the men who had j)re- 
ceded him, and as it was tacitly under- 
stood that he would be satisfied with 


122 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


much less than it had taken to support Mr. 
Dunn, his appointment was hailed by the 
advocates of Church economy with special 
delight. 

Brother Benton was glad they were to 
have a man who did not preach for money, 
and Father Wells began to exult in the 
prospect of old times returning, when two 
shillings a quarter would be all that was 
demanded. Others were equally elated; 
but there were many who saw the absurdity 
of these views, and were shocked at the ex- 
hibition of covetousness on the part of these 
professed disciples of Christ. Thus matters 
continued until the quarterly conference. 
When the subject came up. Brother Gray 
moved to fix the salary at five hundred dol- 
lars, and asked the preacher if that would 
be satisfactory. 

“ Most certainly,” was the reply ; “ it is 
enough for anybody.” 

“ So it is,” said several of his friends at 


once. 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


123 


The proposition was agreed to without 
discussion, though Brother Y ernon ventured 
the remark that it was much the highest 
allowance which they had ever made in 
view of the disciplinary claim of their pas- 
tor. He saw, as did others, that what was 
paraded as a self-sacrificing spirit, was, in 
fact, its very opposite. Brother Dunn had 
eight to support, and his allowance was 
something less than one hundred dollars to 
each person. Brother Spencer had but two 
to feed and clothe, and his allowance was 
two hundred and fifty dollars each. While 
Brother Dunn could not live on his salary, 
his successor, whose chief recommendation 
was that he did not preach for money, could 
lay up his hundreds per year. And such 
had been the fact in time past. Brother 
Spencer had saved quite an amount, while 
his predecessor had, from his hard-earned 
receipts, been able to • preserve nothing 
against the infirmities of age, which were 
already creeping upon him. 


124 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


The conference year opened rather unpro- 
pitiously. Mr. Dunn’s friends were dissatis- 
fied with his removal, and the more so when 
they learned the means by which it had 
been accomplished. Many of them felt un- 
prepared to enter cordially into the new ar- 
rangement, and there was soon an evident 
falling off in the congregation, and a loss 
of that unity which alone can give suc- 
cess. 

It had been proposed during this year to 
make some repairs on the meeting-house, 
which were greatly needed. A hundred 
dollars had been wrenched out of the former 
minister for this purpose, but for the want 
of a leading spirit, and harmonious, united 
action, the effort was now a failure. A pro- 
tracted meeting was held, at the instance of 
Brother Titus, but it was also unsuccessful ; 
the Sunday school greatly decreased for the 
want of a library, while the benevolent con- 
tributions were below any previous year. 
The fact is, the Church was studying econ- 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


125 


omy. The great question with Brother 
Gray and his friends, who were now in the 
ascendant, was ‘‘how cheap can we get 
along 

ISTever before had there been in Ber- 
lin such a financial triumph nor such a 
spiritual defeat. The brethren succeeded 
in lining their pockets, already full to 
overfiowing ; but in the efibrt they 
crucified their Lord afresh, and put him 
to shame even in the house of his 
friends. 

Brother Spencer remained but one year. 
The society were generally satisfied that 
their economy was penny wise and pound 
foolish. Brother Yernon had insisted from 
the beginning, that any system that went 
to lessen the ofiferings of the people would 
be disastrous. The Gospel, he argued, was 
not designed to appeal to man’s selfishness, 
but to his benevolence. It teaches men to 
do for others, to deny themselves, to take 
up the cross, and follow Christ, who gave 


126 


LIFE m THE LAITY. 


all, as the great exemplar and teacher of 
mankind. In view of the policy adopted, 
he was not surprised at th^ result. The 
harvest gathered was the legitimate fruit 
of the seed sown. 


LITE IN THE LAITY. 


127 


CHAPTER XIII. 

SICKNESS AND DEATH OF BROTHER VERNON — HIS CHARACTER 
AND INFLUENCE — THE LOSS. 

In addition to the circumstances already- 
narrated, the Berlin Church was called to 
suffer an additional loss of no ordinary char- 
acter. As has been already stated, Brother 
Yernon was one of the oldest and best mem- 
bers of the station. When a mere lad he 
had espoused the cause of Christ, and from 
that day forward had been thoroughly 
trained in the discharge of the duties and 
responsibilities of a Christian. Possessed 
of intelligence, refinement, and some degree 
of wealth, an honorable position in society 
was assigned him, where he commanded 
universal respect. His consistent piety and 
long-continued devotion to the interests of 
the Church, gave him a prominence among 


128 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


his brethren, which, though unsought, con- 
stituted him a kind of leader in all their 
affairs. To him, more than to any other 
man, the community looked for an exempli- 
fication of the various Christian virtues. 

Neither did they look in vain. In the 
house of God his place was seldom vacant. 
In class and prayer-meetings he bore a con- 
sistent testimony to the power and efficacy 
of the religion of the Gospel. To the vari- 
ous calls of benevolence he never turned a 
deaf ear. He was emphatically a friend to 
the poor and a helper of the distressed. 
The interests of the Church, which are es- 
sentially the interests of humanity, found in 
him a firm supporter and an able advo- 
cate. 

To the minister, Mr. Yernon was an 
invaluable assistant. No preacher ever 
served the Berlin charge that did not find 
in him a sympathizer and friend. His love 
to the pastor, as many could testify, was not 
in word only, but in deed and in truth. 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


129 


When the itinerant came, a stranger and 
alone, he invariably extended a cordial wel- 
come. As a parishioner, it was not his 
custom to wait until the minister called and 
sought his acquaintance ; but he rather met 
him at the threshold, invited him to his 
own house, and provided for him and his 
family until the parsonage could be put in 
order and household conveniences procured. 
In short, he was a model Christian, with a 
warm heart and a liberal hand. To know 
him was to respect and love him as an 
Israelite indeed, in whom there was no 
guile. 

During the session of Conference, Brother 
Yernon was taken suddenly sick. It was 
soon rumored that his recovery was doubt- 
ful. Notwithstanding all the efforts that 
could be put forth he sunk rapidly to the 
tomb. It was soon conceded that the hour 
of his departure was at hand. As might be 
expected, death found him fully prepared. 
With calm assurance and exultant hope he 
9 


130 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


entered the shadowy vale, and, through 
faith in Jesus, met and conquered his latest 
foe. His work was well and faithfully done, 
and in holy triumph he passed the river of 
death and took up his abode wdth angels 
and redeemed spirits in heaven. 

Sad indeed were the hearts of his breth- 
ren when the tidings came that Brother 
Yernon was gone. They felt assured that 
for him to die was gain ; but their loss was 
of such a character that they knew not how 
it could be supplied. Upon him more than 
upon any other man had they relied for 
counsel and support, and the present con- 
dition of the Church was such that his 
absence was keenly felt. 

Still the brethren were not disheartened, 
and were not disposed to murmur. They 
knew full well that the Judge of all the 
earth doeth right; and though stricken, 
many a heart was nerved anew for the con- 
flict, and many a prayer was breathed that 
the good man’s mantle might fall upon an- 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


131 


Other who should take his place, and like 
him contend earnestly for the truth as it is 
in Jesus. 

In such seasons how blessed the assurance 
that God hears and answers prayer. It is a 
tower of strength, into which the righteous 
run and are safe. 


132 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


. CHAPTEK XIY. 

DISCOURAGEMENTS — GOING ABROAD TO WORSHIP — REV. MR. 
NELSON — REDUCING THE SALARY ON A NEW PRINCIPLE 

A CHEAP GOSPEL — RENTING PEWS SO AS TO MAKE 

MONEY. 

It was now generally conceded that the 
affairs of our station were not in the most 
prosperous condition. The membership, as 
a whole, were quite dispirited by the recent 
reverses, and a few were inclined to give up 
the struggle and yield to the unfavorable 
circumstances with which they were sur- 
rounded. Brother Titus and his especial 
friends, who had been loudest in their pro- 
fessions of attachment to the Church, and 
most severe in reproving the infirmities and 
faults of others, were now completely dis- 
couraged. They did not purpose to give up 
religion; far from that; but they saw no 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


133 


liope for the Church in Berlin. When they 
engaged in the public services their atten- 
tion was turned entirely to the desolations 
of this branch of Zion. They talked and 
prayed in desponding tones, as if mourning 
for the dead rather than seeking to promote 
the prosperity of the living. 

More frequently than otherwise they were 
absent from their post. Such was the lack 
of interest at home that they usually sought 
places of worship among the neighboring 
societies. Sometimes they would go six or 
eight miles on the Sabbath morning, in 
order to have a good meeting with the com- 
parative strangers to whom they were thus 
introduced. By them the only object had 
in view in attending religious services was 
to make sure of a “ happy time.” Present 
personal enjoyment was the great end for 
which the cross was to be borne, and it 
made little difference as to the manner or 
place in which this end was gained. As to 
the duty to sustain the Church at home, and 


134 LIFE IN THE LAITY. 

the principle involved, they knew but little 
and cared less. 

By their present course they extended 
their acquaintance and secured some degree 
of attention from their new made friends. 
In a little time they began to look upon 
themselves as belonging to a class of moral 
heroes, charged with the fulfillment of an 
important mission to the Church in general. 
Even among strangers they had no hesita- 
tion in rebuking the improprieties that they 
discovered, especially if they related to the 
apparel of a sister or the theology of a 
minister. In these respects they felt bur- 
dened with the care of all the surround- 
ing Churches. They paused at Berlin just 
often enough to relate their exploits abroad 
and drop a tear or two over afiairs at home, 
without once suspecting the infiuence which 
they themselves exerted toward producing 
the results which they so constantly de- 
plored. 

Fortunately this class of men embraced 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


135 


but a small portion of the society. The 
larger and better part of the Church were 
faithful to the work committed to their 
hands. Neither were they in doubt as to 
the final result. They knew in whom they 
trusted, and dared believe his word. The 
apostasy, for it was nothing less than that, 
of those brethren who assumed to represent 
the religion of the station, tended most of 
all to the depression of their spirits. Espe- 
cially were they grieved by the evil report 
carried abroad by their professed friends, 
who seemed to forget that no men injure a 
cause so badly as those who constantly rep- 
resent it as on the decline. Had it not 
been for the course of these enthusiasts, 
there would have been no real cause for 
discouragement. As it was, the true friends 
of the Church moved steadily onward in 
anticipation of final triumph. 

When the finances of the station for this 
year came to be attended to, the same spirit 
was exhibited as before. Brother Gray was 


136 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


still looking out for an opportunity to econo- 
mize, and Brother Benton’s effort to guard 
the purity of the ministry was as earnest as 
ever. 

The preacher, Kev. Mr. Nelson, was a 
young man of fine sensibilities and retiring 
mannem, and on the questions relating to 
his own support had nothing to say. He 
was assured by Brother Gray, in the pres- 
ence of the Quarterly Conference, that the 
society was disposed to do all within their 
power; but since Brother Yemen’s death 
they had found it necessary to curtail ex- 
penses, and would be under the disagreea- 
ble necessity of cutting down the salary. 
That good brother had paid from fifty to one 
hundred dollars a year, and the society’s 
income would be correspondingly reduced. 
“ In this opinion I presume all the brethren 
will agree with me,” said he, looking around 
with a confident air that seemed to say his 
word was not to be disputed. 

“ Certainly,” responded Brother Benton. 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


137 


“ And then,” added Brother Titus, “ there 
is Brother Stone, who has moved away. 
He used to pay fifteen dollars. That will 
have to be deducted also.” 

‘‘Yes,” said Father Wells; “I don’t see 
but we shall be obliged to come down to 
three hundred dollars. That would come 
to, let me see, about two shillings a quarter 
to each member. We can all pay that just 
as easy as not.” 

“ I think we can raise four hundred,” said 
Brother Gray ; “ but I will agree to Father 
Wells’s suggestion, if it is thought best.” 

“ This is a curious principle indeed,” said 
Brother Ames. “ This Church has sufiered 
the loss of some of its members by death 
and removal. As a consequence, we lose 
the money which they were accustomed to 
pay. How, instead of bearing the burden, 
if burden it can be called, we propose to 
force it all upon our minister. Ought we 
not rather to divide it among ourselves? 
It seems to me we should put our shoulders 


138 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


to the wheel instead of leaving it entirely to 
our neighbor.” 

“But you know,” interrupted Brother 
Benton, with some eagerness, “ that we paid 
all we could before, and it won’t do to ride 
a free horse to death.” 

“ITo, that it won’t,” ejaculated Mr. 
Titus. 

“ It wouldn’t take many horsemen to ride 
all the free horses in this Church to death,” 
rejoined Brother Toby, with his usual blunt- 
ness. 

“ When a man does all he can, everybody 
ought to be satisfied,” said Brother Gray. 

“We don’t do all we can,” replied Brother 
Ames. “The Presbyterian Church in this 
village has less wealth than we have, and 
not more than half as many membei-s, yet 
they pay eight hundred dollars. The Bap- 
tists give six hundred, weak as they are, 
while we talk of doing all we can at three 
or four hundred. I declare I sometimes feel 
ashamed of our society.” 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 139 

“ I shall not pay any more than I have 
done,” said Brother Gray. 

‘‘Yery likely; hut it is not because you 
cannot. The fact is,” continued Brother 
Ames, “you and I ought to give twice as 
much as we do ; and so with others. And 
even then we should not pay as much to 
support the Gospel as do the members of the 
other Churches in this town. We are get- 
ting rich, laying up money every year, and 
still bent on pinching the preacher to the 
lowest possible point, for no other reason 
but that we may add more largely to our 
gains.” 

Brother Ames spoke with more earnest- 
ness than usual, and perhaps with a little 
undue severity in his tone ; yet no one ven- 
tured to reprove him or say anything in re- 
ply. After a moment’s pause he went on : 

“ To some of us it seems the chief recom- 
mendation of the Gospel that it is cheap. 
We can even get it on credit, and pay up 
when it suits us. All other debts we at- 


140 LIFE m THE LAITY. 

tempt to meet promptly ; but the debt we 
owe the Gospel can be left to our leisure, or 
not paid at all, as convenience may dictate. 
When we think of salvation without money 
and without price, we mean simply that our 
preachers must work for nothing, while we 
live on the fat of the land. The course we 
are taking would ruin any Church. I don’t 
expect a revival until we learn to be just 
toward those who are sent to minister to us 
in holy things. God will never smile on a 
people who rob his embassadors of their 
just due.” 

“ I don’t believe money has anything to 
do with a revival any way,” said Brother 
Titus. 

“Justice has,” responded Mr. Ames, “ and 
we can’t be honest without a proper use of 
our money.” 

The conversation continued some time, 
and Mr. Ames found himself almost alone 
in his views of a liberal policy in sustaining 
the Gospel. At length Brother Bissell 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


141 


whispered in his ear, assuring him that he 
was right, but advising him to desist from 
further discussion. “ Brother Gray,” said 
he, “is quite sensitive on this point. He 
has fixed his mark, and if we go above it 
we shall give offense and may be drive him 
from the Church. How you know,” he 
continued, “ we couldn’t get along without 
Brother Gray.” 

This argument was whispered in the ears 
of several. The brethren were startled at 
the bare thought of losing Brother Gray, 
and, rather than run any risk in that direc- 
tion, allowed him to have his own way. 
The allowance was fixed at four hundred, 
two or three only voting in the negative. 

The reader need scarcely be told that the 
year passed on without any visible improve- 
ment. The experiment had been inaugu- 
rated, and was now being fairly tested, of 
carrying on the Church on principles of 
strictest economy. Every member was to 
get along by paying just as little as possible. 


142 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


and was expected to thank God that his 
burden was no heavier. The cry of poverty 
was raised by the richest man in Ihe Church, 
and echoed and re-echoed through all its 
gradations. In a little time even the mem- 
bers began to think the Church was really 
poor and unable to do more than they 
did. 

The result was as might have been antici- 
pated. The plan for repairing the meeting- 
house again proved a failure, and in all re- 
spects matters became worse and worse. 
The congregation grew smaller with almost 
every returning Sabbath. Members who 
contributed but little felt but little interest, 
and the world could not be expected to ex- 
cel them in making sacrifices for the cause 
of Christ. The young people mostly at- 
tended other churches, where appearances 
were more inviting and hopeful , and even 
the children deserted the Sabbath school for 
others conducted with more liberality and 
spirit. 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


143 


The reputation of Berlin Station was not 
now as it had been in other years. The 
dilapidated house of w^orship, the limited 
collections for missions and other benevolent 
causes, told unfavorably in the ears of the 
conference. The preachers who pass from 
place to place knew that Berlin possessed 
more means than the average of charges, 
and, despite the plea of inability, were well 
aware of the facts of the case. Covetous- 
ness was seen to be at the bottom of the 
difficulty, and until that could be overcome 
there was no hope of a higher prosperity. 

At the commencement of Mr. ISTelson’s 
second year it w’as determined to raise the 
preacher’s salary by a new process. Instead 
of the usual subscription, the pews were 
rented, the avails to be applied to this ob- 
ject. This, too, was Mr. Gray’s plan. He 
argued that it would equalize the burdens 
of the Church, which was very desirable. 
A committee was accordingly appointed to 
set a price on each seat, to be regulated by 


144 


LIFE m THE LAITY. 


the advantages of its location. In a small 
house there was, of course, but little differ- 
ence, and as none were priced as high as our 
rich steward usually paid, there was to him 
just so much clear gain. With Brother 
Benton the case was otherwise. He was 
compelled to increase his subscription, 
though taking one of the lowest priced 
seats; but it was afterward found that he 
succeeded in renting single sittings, so as to 
get one fourth part of his pew for nothing. 
It was a shrewd business transaction, and 
the blessings of the Gospel were this year 
clear gain. 

Several others paid more than the price 
fixed on the highest pews. They saw no 
reason for lessening their contributions to 
the cause of God, and had too much relig- 
ious principle about them to take advant- 
age of these circumstances for their own 
pecuniary benefit. On the whole it was 
found that more money was raised in this 
way than by the old plan ; but it was done 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


145 


by adding to the subscriptions of the poorer 
classes and diminishing those of the wealthy. 
Tiiis was what Brother Gray called equal- 
izing the burdens of the Church, by bring- 
ing each member as near as possible to the 
same figure. 

Though the finances of the station were 
thus controlled, it was not because there 
were none who saw and condemned the 
error. Nine tenths of the Church knew 
that matters were not conducted as they 
should be ; but it was not easy to apply the 
remedy. 

Brother Ames thought the preacher ought 
to discuss the subject in the pulpit, with the 
same plainness of speech that he did other 
matters; but Mr. Nelson had embraced the 
common sentiment that it would not do for 
a minister to look after his own finances, lest 
he be charged with having selfish ends in 
view. Thus he allowed giant wrongs to go 
unrebuked, and kept the pulpit silent while 
the destroying worm was eating out the 
10 


146 


LIEE IN THE LAITY. 


very vitals of the Church. It is not so clear 
to all minds that a preacher is at liberty to 
fail in declaring the whole Gospel, for the 
sake of avoiding reproach and getting the 
good-will of those who refuse to do their 
duty. 

More than once did Mr. Ames and his 
friends wish for the return of Brother Dunn, 
or some other fearless man of God, who 
would insist upon the right, regardless of 
consequences. They knew that such a man 
would be sustained, notwithstanding the 
cavils of the ruling clique who were now 
guiding the destinies of the station. 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


147 


CHAPTER XY. 

CHARITY BEGINNING AT HOME — TAKING BREATH — THE 
BIBLE AGENT — SUNDAY-SCHOOL UNION — THE MISSIONARY 
COLLECTION — A CENT A WEEK FOR THE CONVERSION OP 
THE WORLD — MR. TITUS — FIFTH COLLECTION — BROTHER 
QUIGLEY' AND HIS TWO SHILLINGS. 


DuEiNa this trying period in the history of 
our station, there was a corresponding dimi- 
nution of zeal in all the benevolent opera- 
tions of the Church. It began to be whis- 
pered in certain quarters that, as charity 
should begin at home, and there were so 
many calls for home interests, these should 
be attended to and the others left to them- 
selves. 

At the quarterly conference, when the 
appointment of the missionary committee 
was called for, several brethren could see 
no occasion for it, as but little, if any- 


148 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


thing, could be expected from Berlin for 
such a cause. 

“ You surely will not press a missionary 
collection when we are so much embarrassed 
in our own affairs,” said Brother Gray to the 
pastor. 

“It is my duty to take all the regular 
collections,” was the reply. 

“ I think they ought to be dispensed with 
this year,” continued the rich steward. 
“Our society ought to have time to take 
breath before being called on for such 
things.” 

“Some of us do nothing but take breath,” 
said Mr. Ames, laughing. “ Our collections 
last year were very small. I confess I was 
ashamed when I read the report in the con- 
ference Minutes.” 

“Some of us vrant the privilege of giving 
to a good cause,” said Brother Holmes. 

“That’s all well enough,” said Brother 
Gray, “only we ought to give where it is 
most needed, and I think that is at home.” 


LIFE nr THE LAITY. 


149 


“ My experience has shown me that those 
who give abroad are not often deficient in 
attending to home interests,” said Mr. 
Oliver. 

‘‘Well, well; let those give that can af- 
ford to ; I can’t do much at present,” an- 
swered Mr. Gray. 

“ Nor I either,” responded Brothers Ben- 
ton and Titus together. 

No large results could be expected under 
the leadership of such men as these; yet 
the pastor had no idea of neglecting the re- 
quirements of the Discipline in yielding 
to their wishes. He knew that to allow the 
spirit of benevolence to die out in the 
Church was to destroy its only remaining 
vitality, and totally unfit it for the work at 
home as well as abroad. 

In the course of a few weeks Mr. Nelson 
announced, at the close of service on the 
Sabbath morning, that the agent of the 
American Bible Society would preach in 
the afternoon, and take up the annual col- 


150 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


lection for the circulation of the Scriptures. 
This gentleman, before his appointment to 
the agency, had often preached in Berlin, 
and was quite a favorite with the people ; 
but, strange to say, the congregation on the 
present occasion proved unusually small. 
Headache and rheumatism (spiritual, it was 
supposed) kept a considerable number from 
the house of God. Among them, as might 
be expected, were the brethren who had 
said and done so much in favor of Church 
economy. The very fact that a collection 
was mentioned awakened the latent dis- 
orders that lurked about the nervous sys- 
tem, so that they were unable to leave their 
rooms. 

But the agent was not a novice in his 
work. He had arranged to spend several 
days in making calls and soliciting aid from 
those that were not thus publicly reached. 
To his personal appeals many gave a favor- 
able response; but others could not be in- 
duced to contribute. Brother Gray be- 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


151 


lieved the Bible Society to be a good insti- 
tution, and would give if it were not for a 
single objection. He did not believe in 
employing and paying agents out of the 
money thus raised. 

‘‘ Why don’t the regular pastor take the 
collection and save this expense?” he in- 
quired. ‘‘ If I give anything it will be of 
no use, as so much of it will go to support 
agents and officers. I have made up my 
mind not to contribute to any society that 
adopts this policy.” 

This was a happy thought for others as 
well as Mr. Gray. Brother Benton was 
fairly elated with the idea. He had decided 
not to give anything long before ; but then 
it was so much better to have an excuse 
that would satisfy the conscience and silence 
all future appeals. To him it was strange 
that it had never been thought of until now. 
It was so clear and satisfactory. He had 
always known there was something wrong, 
and therefore had never contributed a cent ; 


152 


LIFE ESr THE LAITY. 


blit until this time he had possessed no idea 
of what it was. 

!N'ot long after Mr. Kelson took the col- 
lection for the Sunday-School Union. Here 
there was no agent, and no charge of ex- 
travagant expenditures could possibly be 
made. Most of the members responded 
cheerfully, though not largely, to the call ; 
yet it was seen that the same brethren who 
had excuses before had them now again. 
They were equally clear it was not their 
duty to give to educate and instruct the ris- 
ing generation abroad, when there were so 
many indigent and ignorant children in theii 
own village. One might suppose, to hear 
them talk, that they were the warmest 
friends of the Sunday-school cause in Berlin, 
though the walls of the school-room had 
never yet been darkened by their shadows, 
and were not likely to be witnesses of 
their zeal. 

Kext came the missionary meeting, when 
the Church was asked to give what it could 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


153 


toward the conversion of the world. E’one 
of the objections heretofore urged were 
found to bear against this cause, and the 
claim was generally felt and acknowledged. 
To the praise of Berlin be it spoken, a liberal 
subscription was given ; but it came almost 
exclusively from those who had contributed 
to the other objects. When Brother Gray 
was first called upon he thought the society 
too poor to do anything, as there was so 
much to be done at home; but finally, re- 
membering that there had been a proposi- 
tion to have the members of the whole 
Church contribute a cent a week, he con- 
cluded he would subscribe, and did so. As 
to his wife and daughters, they must answer 
for themselves. He would do his part, and 
pay down ; and with an air of satisfaction 
he counted out fifty-two cents and handed 
it to the collector. 

As Brother Gray had done his duty, Mr. 
Benton concluded to do the same. He was 
not troubled with a wife and daughters in 


154 


LIFE m THE LAITY. 


the calculation, for, fortunately, they had 
never been converted, and could not be ex- 
pected • to contribute. The examples of 
these men, and the great sacrifice they made 
for the cause of God^ were not sufficient to 
move their friend and fellow. Brother Titus. 
He took up his cross in saying prayers and 
singing hymns, when he was sure to get 
happjT'. These worldly matters didn’t trouble 
him in the least, and why should they, for 

“ His soul was full of glory, 

And inspiring was his tongue/^ 

This brother had a strange and yet not 
altogether peculiar idea of the Gospel. He 
thanked God almost daily that salvation was 
by faith only^ and not by anything that man 
can do. As there was no merit in good 
works, it was no use to practice them, espe- 
cially as it had a tendency to lead man to 
rely on his own efforts rather than upon the 
unbounded grace of God. To him the yoke 
of the Gospel was easy and the burden light, 


LIFE m THE LAITY. 


155 


Only take up the cross, which consists in 
speaking in meeting, and God will take care 
of the results. ]^o man knew better than 
he how to rejoice in 2^ free salvation, with- 
out money and without price. For twenty 
years that he had been a member of the 
Church, he had found this sweetest and 
most glorious promise in the Bible literally 
true. He loved the Church of his choice 
better than any other, because it made the 
way to heaven plainer and cheaper than any 
other. While his brethren were troubled 
with questions of mint and anise, of paying 
the preacher and giving to missions, he had 
learned to his way^'^ straight to glory. 

The Lord would bring in the heathen when 
the millennium should come, and it was of 
no use to hurry matters, as if we could get 
them converted before that time. 

The millennium ! Ah, Brother Titus never 
thought of that without going into raptures. 
Then nations were to be converted in a day, 
and all the idols of the heathen thrown 


156 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


to the moles and the bats. He hoped it 
would come soon, as he wanted to share in 
its glories and join in its songs of deliver- 
ance. Many a time had he prayed with all 
his might for the conversion of the world, 
and why should he not live in hope ; for he 
knew that God always hears and answers 
prayer. 

In church Brother Titus was very devo- 
tional. He did not care much for sermons, 
but the class-meetings and prayer-meetings 
were his delight. He could sing louder, 
pray longer, and shout oftener than any 
other member. In the public congregation 
his meditations were most profound, espe- 
cially during the taking of the collection, 
when he seldom opened his eyes or seemed 
aware of what was going on. By some it 
was shrewdly suspected that he did not be- 
lieve in attending to secular business on 
Sunday. Others thought it was on the 
principle of bidding the world stay yonder 
while he went up to worship; in otlier words, 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


157 


that his religion related to the future world 
instead of this. However that may be, no 
influence was sufficient to induce him to 
give a cent a week, more or less, toward 
effecting the conversion of the world. 

When the collector made application to 
Ml’S. Gray, that lady coolly referred the 
matter to her husband, who, she said, 
usually paid for the whole family. The 
daughters would give if their father would 
furnish the money. They had none of their 
own, and of course were wholly dependent 
on him. This was known to be very true ; 
but it was equally w’ell understood that they 
expended large sums for flnery and unneces- 
sary apparel, and could, if they had chosen, 
have saved something for the cause of God. 
Besides the subscription of Brother Gray, 
which was already secured, nothing w’as ob- 
tained from this the richest and most promi- 
nent family in the Church. 

Other families contributed liberally. 
Several subscriptions of from ten to twenty 


158 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


dollars were made, and, on the whole, a re- 
spectable collection was taken. To such 
men as Brother Ames and Brother Holmes 
the cent a week plan seemed perfectly ab- 
surd. They could not be content to attempt 
peopling the world of glory with immortal 
souls at so cheap a rate. Ho other work so 
great, to be accomplished by human agency, 
would be undertaken with such limited in- 
strumentalities when mightier ones were at 
hand. By their example much was done 
toward counteracting the influence of those 
whose love of the world was so much more 
prominent than their love of souls. 

The other contributions were after the 
same manner. Even the efforts for the sup- 
port of the presiding elder met with similar 
treatment. Many doubts were entertained, 
just as the stewards started with the plates, 
as to the propriety of having such an office 
in the Church, and not until these were set- 
tled could anything be given. Brother 
Titus, who had no sense of shame, usually 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


159 


attended the quarterly-meeting love-feast, 
where he was so greatly blessed as to be 
able to dispense with the other means of 
grace. He therefore avoided the collection 
by being away, either at his home or in 
some other congregation. 

The fund for the support of the worn-out 
preachers was not looked after until near 
the close of the year. The pastor then 
preached a sermon on the occasion, in 
which he showed the propriety of doing 
something for this class of men. It was an 
eloquent and earnest appeal, and touched 
some hearts not usually influenced by the 
calls of benevolence. Among them was 
Brother Quigley, a man of means, who had 
not contributed, to any amount, to any of 
the previous objects, for reasons such as 
actuated those who have been already 
named. This brother, like some other men, 
made it a rule never to carry his pocket- 
book to church for fear his heart might be 
stirred and he be led into financial impru- 


160 


LIFE m THE LAITY. 


deuce, and he was therefore unprepared for 
the occasion. At the close of the service he 
went to the pastor and remarked that he 
did not give because he had no money with 
him. ‘‘But,” said he, “I will do some- 
thing. This is an object for which I am 
willing to contribute. I believe in taking 
care of these needy old men. It was 
through their instrumentality that I was 
converted and brought into the Church. 
Under God I owe all I have and am to 
them. I’ll hand you my subscription this 
evening.” 

“ Yery well,” said Mr. Nelson. 

Now, thought the pastor, I shall get a 
good lift. Brother Quigley, who owes 
everything to these men, will be liberal, 
though he cannot even then fully pay the 
debt. 

Evening came, and as Mr. Nelson was 
going into the church he met his parish- 
ioner, who, with a smile, extended his hand, 
saying : “ There is my subscription for the 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


161 


superannuated preachers. This is a duty 1 
think we should attend to in preference to 
looking after the heathen and those that we 
don’t know anything about.” 

Just then he let drop two York shillings 
into the minister’s hand and glided into his 
pew, prepared for his evening devotions. 
The pastor gave out the ten hundred and 
thirty-fourth hymn, which Brother Quigley 
most heartily joined in singing. The last 
verse is as follows : 

“ Whate’er our willing hands can give, 

Lord, at thy feet we lay ; 

Grace will the humble gift receive, 

And grace at length repay.^' 


11 


162 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


CHAPTEE XYI. 

CHANGES IN THE OFFICIAL BOARD — DOING WITHOUT A 
PREACHER — BROTHER BURNS — A CHURCH DOLLAR — REV. 
MR. TOWNLEY — CHURCH REPAIRS. 

Several changes had bj this time occurred 
in the official boaixl. The steward’s office, 
made vacant by the death of Mr. Yernon, 
was filled by the appointment of Brother 
Holmes, who will be remembered as the 
early fiiend and companion of Mr. Ames. 
Father Wells, having become satisfied tliat 
it was impossible to restore the Church to 
the position it occupied wffien he was a boy, 
tendered his resignation and made room for 
Mr. Cole, who advocated a policy directly 
opposite that of his predecessor. Brother 
Titus also gave up his class, and was suc- 
ceeded by a Brother James. Other changes 
were made which it is not necessary to 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


163 


mention. At times it was thouglit Brother 
Gray would also resign, as he was getting 
pretty much discouraged, and, though hav- 
ing his own way, was far from being satis- 
fied with the result. 

This brother began to think there was not 
strength enough in Berlin to maintain a 
station, and he sometimes proposed to have 
the charge left without a preacher for a 
year or two, until the society could take 
breath and have a little relief from its 
manifold burdens. He thought occasional 
preaching might be secured from members 
of the conference, and when their services 
could not be obtained gratis, the society 
could fall back on the local preachers resid- 
ing in their midst. Thus the expense 
would be saved and strength gained so as to 
enable them to make a vigorous effort at 
some future time. 

With this plan Brother Burns and Brother 
Ely were very much pleased. The former 
had always felt that the stationed preacher 


164 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


was in his way, and that his opportunities 
for exercising his gifts were so extremely 
limited as to scarcely make it worth while 
to hold his license. The latter, as an ex- 
horter, was pretty much. of the same opinion. 
They had both felt afflicted that the pastors 
did not oftener call them into the pulpit and 
give them opportunities for magnifying 
their office. 

When Brother Burns went with this 
proposition to Mr. Oliver, the other local 
preacher, he found that brother disposed to 
treat it as one of Brother Gray’s jokes. 
“ Why,” said he, “ we three would ruin this 
Church in less than a single year. The 
people don’t want to hear us all the time, 
and we should find it an up-hill business in- 
deed. 1 ^ 0 , no. Brother Burns; I’ll have 
nothing to do with that arrangement.” 

“ I feel it my duty to preach,” was the 
reply, “and think this would be a favorable 
opening.” 

“ I feel it a duty to preach also, and there 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


165 


are places enough round about, without 
crowding myself where I am not wanted,” 
said Brother Oliver. 

“ Well, I am not going to be sent out all 
the time. We ought to have the privilege 
of preaching here,” replied Mr. Burns. 

“It’s no more a privilege ioxme to preach 
here than anywhere else; besides, neither 
Brother Gray nor any one else desires such 
an arrangement. Like a thousand other 
things, it is mere talk for talk’s sake. Those 
brethren who think it essential to represent 
the Church as being very poor, take this 
way to help make the impression.” 

Brother Oliver was right, nearer so than 
even he himself supposed, in these remarks. 
'No one seriously contemplated the arrange- 
ment over which Mr. Burns was so elated. 
It was to help along Brother Gray’s favorite 
theory, and aid in the promotion of his 
economical principles in the management 
of Church finances. 

The session of conference was agaip at 


166 


LIFE m THE LAITY. 


hand, and as Brother Gray was anxious to 
have a preacher with a small family, he was 
once more in attendance, with his eye, as 
nsnal, on the main chance. Had he been 
willing to devote as much to the support of 
his minister as he spent in traveling to and 
from conference, and had his friends done 
proportion ably, there would have been no 
necessity for a man with a small claim. It 
is indeed strange, that some men are free in 
the use of their money for all purposes but 
those of strict benevolence. They can 
spend it in traveling, hazard it in business, 
use it in ornamenting their dwellings and 
furnishing their parlors, or in a thousand 
other ways, without any conscientious 
scruples; but let them be called upon to 
devote a tithe of as much to the purposes 
of religion, and they are indignant. A 
hundred dollars thrown into the bottom of 
the sea does not appear half as large as a 
five dollar bill given for the support of the 
Gospel. A Church dollar is the largest dol- 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 167 

lar in the world, and to part with it costs 
far more sacrifice than to give up any 
other. 

In many respects Brother Gray made a 
liberal use of his money. He would go to 
conference, put up at a hotel, and spend 
fifteen dollars in getting a cheap preacher, 
so that his subscription could be reduced 
one third of that amount, and think he had 
made a profitable investment. 

The reader may not be able to account 
for facts of this kind ; but if he looks around 
him he will readily find them in exist- 
ence. 

The preacher sent to Berlin proved to be 
the Kev. Mr. Townley. He was a wide- 
awake, earnest man in whatever he en- 
gaged, and, though blunt almost to coarse- 
ness in his manner, was well adapted to the 
wants of the station. He was enabled to 
see at a glance the difiiculties to be met, 
and his plans were immediately formed. 
The house of worship must be put in order. 


168 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


and the proposition was made to begin the 
work without delay. Brother Benton as- 
sured him that it could not be done, and 
Mr. Gray thought they should wait until 
the society was better off than at present. 
“ If we could only have a revival we should 
be able to do it,” said he. 

“We need not expect a revival until we 
do our duty,” was the pastor’s response. 

“ The people are poor,” said Mr. Benton, 
“and if you urge them to subscribe for this 
object there will be nothing left for you. I 
always look out for the preacher, and am 
opposed to the repairs for that reason, if for 
no other.” 

“Never mind the preacher now,” said 
Mr. Townley. “ One thing at a time. The 
question is, ought we to do this? If it is 
our duty, let us go ahead.” 

“ It ought to be done,” put in Mr. Titus ; 
“ but the Church is very weak. Almost all 
the members are poor, too pooy to expend 
so much,” 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


169 


“They are too rich, rather,” put in the 
preacher. “I wish they had not half so 
much money as they have. They would 
give more then than they do now. It is 
not poverty that hurts this station, I can as- 
sure you. It is the want of a liberal dispo- 
sition.” 

“ If we could have a revival first and get 
in some new members to help, it would 
come lighter,” said Brother Gray. 

“Well, I guess, for I am a Yankee, that 
the Lord will send a revival for that pur- 
pose,” answered the preacher. “Suppose 
we pray for one in this wise : ‘ O Lord, re- 
vive thy work ; save sinners and bring them 
into the Church, so that Brother Gray and 
the rest of us won’t have to pay anything 
for the support of the Gospel.’ Do you 
think we shall get an answer ?” 

“I fear you will give offense if you talk 
in that way,” said Brother Bissell. 

“I^ever mind, it won’t be the first time. 
Some people ought to be offended.” 


170 LIFE m THE LAITY. 

“But we must be careful of each other’s 
feelings.” 

“Yes, yes, all right,” added Brother Town- 
ley, in his half earnest, half jesting tones. 
“But there is no room for excuses in this 
matter. That old meeting-house must be 
put in shape, and if the Church won’t do it 
we’ll call on the goa^ts, that’s all.” 

“Well, I guess he’ll make it go,” said 
Brother Gray, turning away and walking 
off. “If he does I shall have to give a 
hundred, that’s clear. So much out of 
pocket this year.” 

And he did make it go. The money was 
soon raised and the work begun and prose- 
cuted to completion. By the ingenuity of 
the preacher a much more thorough work 
was done than had been originally contem- 
plated. In the end everybody was pleased 
with the result, and there was a visible imr 
provement in the Berlin Station from that 
hour. 

At the proper time the question of the 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


171 


preacher’s salary came to be considered, 
when the argument was advanced that but 
little, even less than before, could be al- 
lowed, as so much had been expended in 
repairs. Brother Holmes contended that 
this circumstance would only help the mat- 
ter along, and he was sustained in this view 
by several others, whose counsels finally 
prevailed. An allowance was made of 
eight hundred dollars, double that of last 
year, and measures devised to secure it. 
Brother Gray resisted to the last ; but in the 
absence of his old friends and backers his 
efforts were in vain. Brother Ames and 
his co-workers were in the ascendency and 
carried their point. The new members of 
the board adopted liberal views, and helped 
put them into execution. 

To raise the money it was proposed to 
appoint a committee to make an estimate 
of what each member ought to pay, in pro- 
portion to his or her ability. After much 
discussion and many objections to the prin- 


112 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


ciple, on the part of those who knew they 
did not do their duty, the plan was adopted 
and the committee appointed. Brother 
Gray was made chairman, and Brothers 
Holmes and Cole his associates. 

In due time they presented their report, 
which met with a general acquiescence. 
Father Wells would not pay his apportion- 
ment, and was not expected to ; for in 
money matters he had never been known to 
do his duty. Brother Benton concluded to 
withdraw from the Church, and called for 
his letter ; but when he found the preacher 
ready to dismiss him, took time to recon- 
sider the subject, and nothing more was 
heard of his leaving. He had evidently ex- 
pected to carry the point involved in his 
opposition to the new arrangement by this 
means, but found himself mistaken. 

Mr. Titus said he should leave the society 
if that course was persisted in. Brother 
Townley informed him that he could have 
his letter of dismissal whenever he desired it, 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


11B 

but it was not called for. The truth is, these 
men had been in the habit of carrying their 
measures by threats of this kind. But in 
Mr. Townley they found, to their astonish- 
ment, a preacher who seemed willing to let 
them go, and their old plans were no longer 
available. They had therefore no other re- 
source but to put their threats into execu- 
tion or submit to the general arrangements 
of the Church. Like most other men who 
threaten, they prudently chose to retreat, 
and in the future act a more wise and Chris- 
tian part. 

This was the dawning of a new era in 
the history of Berlin Church. Though Mr. 
Townley was not as able a preacher as 
many who had preceded him, there was a 
visible increase in the congregation, and a 
general prosperity attending all their inter- 
ests. The fact is, the people had got along 
altogether too cheaply. Father Wells’s ex- 
perience, and Brother Gray’s philosophy, 
had led them to think that one chief ex- 


174 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


cellence of the Church to which they be- 
longed, consisted in the fact that they could 
get to heaven with a much less outlay of 
money in this branch of Zion than in any 
other. Many of them had now come to the 
conclusion that it was better for the Churcli 
to devise liberal things than to be forever 
studying economy ; that they ought rather 
to seek ways and means of doing good than 
thus to hide their light under a bushel. It 
was a happy discovery, and made just in 
time to save the station from utter ruin. 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


175 


CHAPTEE XYn. 


UNEXPECTED CHANGE OF PASTORS — SHORT TERMS — THEIR 
, INFLUENCE — REV. MR. GOLDEN — CALLING ON THE PREACH- 
ER’S WIFE. 

Unfortunately for tlie interests of our sta- 
tion, Mr. Townley was not allowed to remain 
a second year. Some other charge desired 
his services, perhaps had greater need of 
them, and he was accordingly removed. 
The change was entirely unexpected at Ber- 
lin, and in not a few minds there was a dis- 
position to complain. This did not arise so . 
much from the fear that a good man would 
not be sent in his place, as from the fact 
that the acquaintance which he had formed 
gave him an immense advantage over a 
stranger. In many respects he was just 
getting ready to work in leading souls to 
Christ. The past year had been successful, 


176 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


and the Church seemed entering upon a 
career of more than ordinary prosperity, so 
that a change of leaders was far from being 
desirable. No pastor in so short a time 
could do more than extend his acquaintance 
to the members of his own congregation; 
and notwithstanding Mr. Townley’s diligence, 
that large class of irreligious persons who 
stand most in need of a minister’s labors 
were yet uncared for. 

In the present state of society this must 
ever be the case where the term of minis- 
terial service is so extremely limited. At 
the beginning of his term the preacher is a 
stranger to all, and his first effort, in con- 
nection with his other labors, is to form the 
acquaintance of his members. In a large 
society he is fortunate indeed if this is done 
in a single year, so as to enable him to 
understand the personal peculiarities and 
consequent wants of those whom he is 
appointed to serve. To remove him then 
is to take him away before opportunities 


LIFE m THE LAITY. 177 

for extensive usefulness have been af- 
forded. 

The same state of things is found to exist, 
though to a less extent, at the end of the 
second year. Very many families, con- 
nected with no particular congregation, are 
never reached and influenced by an itiner- 
ant ministry. They may be favorably in- 
clined to our institutions, and ready to be 
led forward in the way of life ; but the pas- 
tor does not know them, and in the brief 
term of two years has no time to find them 
out. His members are clamoring to be 
visited, and his immediate congregation 
must be attended to, and by the time this is 
done the field is abandoned to another, 
when a similar process is begun with cor- 
responding results. 

This evil was seen and felt by the most 
intelligent members of the official board, 
and every year’s observation deepened the 
conviction that the term of ministerial serv- 
ice ought to be extended. The Berlin 
12 


178 LIFE IN THE LAITY. 

Church had lost much and suffered much 
bj these frequent changes. Every new 
minister inaugurated a new and distinct ad- 
ministration, and in all their plans nothing 
could be looked upon as permanently estab- 
lished. At one time the pastor, in whom 
all had confidence, proposed a scheme 
which, upon his recommendation and urg- 
ent request, would be adopted as the basis 
of action. Watched over and guarded by 
its originator, it was almost sure to succeed 
so long as he continued in charge. By the 
time it was fairly established, and before it 
could become identified with the permanent 
interests of the station, a change of minis- 
ters would introduce a change of measures. 
The new comer had been accustomed to a 
different mode of doing the same things, 
and under his guidance another experiment 
would be undertaken. A year or two, and 
a similar scene was re-enacted, to the loss 
of all permanence and the disparagement of 
the whole work. 


LIFE m THE LAITY. 


179 


If for any reason the plan thus proposed 
by the preacher was rejected, there fol- 
lowed a still greater evil — the want of har- 
monious action between the pastor and his 
people. Then almost any plan would be a 
failure. In the minds of many who had 
watched the history of the station, the itiner- 
ancy brought no advantages to counterbal- 
ance these losses. They could readily see 
its peculiar adaptation to new and sparsely- 
settled communities, which have ever been 
the field of its most glorious triumphs. 'No 
one at Berlin desired its abolition, but 
nearly all asked for a change, to give it 
more success in the older stations. The 
preachers also shared the same feeling, with 
the exception of those who eschew all 
change, and seek to stereotype forms and 
customs as they existed in their early days ; 
and a few, to their shame be it spoken, who 
feared that a longer term would give the 
best appointments to their superiors and 
leave themselves to the smaller and less im- 


180 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


portant charges. That the change would 
be made in the course of a few years, was 
the opinion of nearly all who were familiar 
with the disadvantages referred to. 

In the place of Mr. Townley came the 
Eev. Mr. Golden, who, though wholly un- 
acquainted with the Berlin Society, was 
duly received and recognized as the regular 
pastor. Some of the members, however, 
treated him rather coolly, not because of 
objections to him, but of attachment to his 
predecessor. They saw no good reason for 
Brother Townley’s removal, and though 
having no occasion to charge it upon Mr. 
Golden, he was obliged, in part at least, to 
bear the consequences. 

“ Have you called on the new preacher 
asked Mrs. Bissell of several of the sisters as 
they met at the sewing circle. 

“ I have not,” answered Mrs. Ames. “ I 
am half inclined not to form an intimate 
acquaintance wuth him or his family. If I 
do they will move away just as I become 


LIFE m THE LAITY. 181 

attached to them, and I shall suffer in my 
feelings more than I shall gain.” 

“ So IVe been thinking,” said Sister 
Toby. “I have become discouraged call- 
ing on the preachers. I have not been to 
see Sister Golden yet, and don’t know as I 
shall.” 

“ I can’t learn that any one has visited 
her except myself,” said Mrs. Holmes. “ I 
have been to the parsonage two or three 
times, and I think Mrs. Golden feels neg- 
lected that the members do not visit 
her.” 

“Some preachers’ wives are always com- 
plaining if everybody don’t run after them 
as soon as they get here,” said Mrs. Quig- 
ley. “ I shall not go to see her till she calls 
on me.” 

“But you ought to call first,” exclaimed 
several voices. 

“Ho, no,” replied Sister Quigley; “not 
on a minister's wife. It is her duty to call 
on everybody,” 


182 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


“ I am glad then that I am not a minis- 
ter’s wife,” said Sister Ames, “for I am 
pretty sure I shouldn’t do my duty.” 

“ I think all should call on Sister Golden 
and make her feel at home,” added Mrs. 
Holmes. “ She is a stranger here, and must 
be lonely unless we welcome her.” 

“ It won’t make much difference,” put in 
Mrs. Quigley ; “ she’ll be away in a year or 
two, and her society is not of much account 
just for that time.” 

“ Ours may be of some consequence to 
her,” replied Sister Holmes. “ Though she 
stays but a year or two in a place, she 
spends a lifetime somewhere ; and if each 
Church should do by her as we propose, it 
would deprive her of society altogether.” 

“I will make her a call the first oppor- 
tunity I have,” said Sister Ames. “ I ought 
to have gone before this.” 

“ She is an excellent woman,” said Sister 
Holmes, “and we shall enjoy her acquaint- 
ance very much, I invited her to the sew- 


LITE m THE LAITY. 183 

ing circle, but she was so much of a stranger 
she d.eclined coming.” 

“She should* have come all the more, so 
as to get acquainted,” said Mrs. Quigley. 

“Perhaps she does not want to get ac* 
quainted enough to run after people,” re^ 
plied. Mrs. Ames. “I wouldn’t have come 
if I had been in her place, so long as none 
of us had been to see her.” 

“ But you are not a minister’s wife.” 

“ I don’t see as that makes any difference. 
Minister’s wives are entitled to respectful 
treatment as well as other people.” 

In this conclusion the ladies generally 
agreed. Mrs. Quigley did not find many at 
Berlin who believed with her that it was 
the duty of a preacher’s wife to come on to 
the charge, and go out making pastoral 
visits. The people were too well informed 
to be led into such views. They knew that 
a minister’s wife occupied no different 
position in society than that of any other 
Christian lady, and were disposed to treat 


184 


LIFE m THE LAITY. 


her with no less respect. The feelings 
which found expression at the sewing so- 
ciety resulted from no want of sympathy 
with the preacher or his wife, who, so far as 
they were known, were already highly es- 
teemed. They very naturally sprung from 
the circumstances under which the ladies 
were placed. Like all other persons who 
act on intelligent principles, they desired 
associations that might he permanent, and 
sought friendships that gave promise of en- 
durance ; hut in so doing forgot to consider 
what must he the solitude of the itinerant 
preacher’s wife, if all the ladies of the 
Church acted on that purely self-regarding 
principle. 


LIFE m THE LAITY. 


185 


CHAPTEK XYHI. 

PASTORAL VISITING — BROTHER BENTON — SISTER QUIGLEY 
— A GREAT REVIVAL AND ITS FRUITS — REMOVAL OF THE 
PASTOR. 

Mr. Golden’s first term was not marked 
with any very auspicious results. For a 
little time after his coming the congrega- 
tion sensibly diminished, and the various 
interests of the Church seemed to be on 
the decline; but as he became better ac- 
quainted the embarrassments were over- 
come, and the difficulties surrounding him 
as a stranger fully surmounted. 

It was soon admitted on all hands that 
he was one of the best preachers with 
which the station had been favored. Able 
in his exposition of the Scriptures, earnest 
in his efforts to benefit his hearers, and 
eloquent in liis manner of address, his 


186 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


preaching was almost universally com- 
mended. 

Against him one only objection was 
urged : he was .charged with being defi- 
cient in pastoral visiting. The opinion pre- 
vailed here, as in many other places, that 
this was the most important work of a Gos- 
pel minister. Many of the people cared 
less for the pulpit exercises, and for the 
proper discharge of his duties as a preacher, 
than they did for his social habits. They 
wanted to see him at their homes and hear 
him chat about their farms and merchan- 
dise; and when it was found that Mr. 
Golden spent a great proportion of his time 
in his study, there was no little complaint. 
A few felt slighted in not seeing him as 
often as they wislied; and taking ofiense 
that he neglected making their views his 
rule of duty, they resolved to absent them- 
selves from the house of God, and thereby 
be revenged ; hoping also in the end to bring 
the pastor to tlieir terms. 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


1S1 


This was the case with Brother Benton, 
who was now fast becoming a garrulous old 
man, distinguished more for being a croaker 
than a Christian. So far as he was person- 
ally concerned, he professed to have no care 
whether Brother Golden visited him or not; 
but he had a pungent feeling for others 'who 
were aggrieved by the neglect. He accord- 
ingly remained at home on two or three suc- 
cessive Sabbaths, taking care to have it well 
understood that he intended it as a rebuke 
to the preacher. After he had fully satis- 
fied himself that it had reached Mr. Golden’s 
ear, he felt considerably surprised and more 
than ever afflicted that that personage said 
nothing, and seemed to care nothing for the 
result. He was now fully resolved to 
bring the minister to terms, and continued 
the experiment, but with no better suc- 
cess. Brother Golden saw the spirit ex- 
hibited, and knew that nothing would be 
gained by catering to the old gentleman’s 
whims. 


188 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


A similar experiment was tried by Sister 
Quigley. The cause of her complaint ex- 
isted in the fact that Mrs. Golden had twice 
called on Sister Holmes and had not come 
to see her. The next Sunday bore testi- 
mony to the lady’s indignation by revealing 
her absence from the house of worship. 
The preacher and his wife were informed 
of the peculiarities of the case, and urged to 
set it all right by making her a call. It 
was suggested by the friends that Sister 
Quigley was a little peculiar in her notions 
and very set in her way, and the minister 
wmuld be obliged to pay her especial atten- 
tion, or there was danger of her leaving the 
Church. She had several times been on the 
point of withdrawing, and had once or 
twice even asked for her letter ; but as her 
demands were met before the dismissal was 
consummated, she had been retained. Those 
who knew her best had no doubt but the 
same process would again secure the same 
result. 


LIFE m THE LAITY. 


189 


Under these circumstances it became a 
question with Mr. Golden, whether or not 
it would prove a benefit to such persons to 
encourage them in this course by yielding 
to their terms. Their spirit was evidently 
unchristian and unreasonable, and there was 
room for a doubt as to what should be done. 
He finally decided to treat them as he did 
all others, making no reference to the cir- 
cumstances referred to. Mrs. Golden had 
always constituted it a rule to return such 
calls as she received, so far as her time 
would permit ; but as Sister Quigley had 
not been to see her she felt justified in her 
present course. 

Besides, few persons feel inclined to visit 
an individual who has set up some standard, 
and has a battery of fault-finding and abuse 
loaded, to be discharged the moment they 
make their appearance. Sister Golden was 
an entire stranger to Mrs. Quigley, and 
would have been extremely embarrassed to 
make her acquaintance under such cir- 


190 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


ciimstances. She therefore wisely stayed 
away. 

J^otwithstanding these complaints, Mr. 
Golden was not entirely lacking in his quali- 
ties as a visitor. As opportunity presented, 
he called on his members and the people 
generally, as far as he was able, making this, 
however, a secondary feature of his work. 
After a little time the people ceased to ex- 
pect more, and, except on the part of the 
few who make fault-finding a profession, a 
general satisfaction prevailed. 

Early in the second year of his incum- 
bency there were unusual evidences of the 
Divine presence. Several sought and ob- 
tained peace in believing, and others were 
known to be inquiring the way to life eter- 
nal. During the months of autumn and 
winter the interest continued to increase, 
until it was found necessary to multiply the 
services of the Church, so that almost every 
evening was devoted to Divine service. : One 
after another who had rejected the proffers 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


191 


of grace for many years, now yielded to be 
saved by the power of faith, and the influ- 
ence of the revival became widely extended. 
Scores, and at length hundreds, were happily 
converted to God. The old and the young, 
the high and the low, moved by a common 
desire, flocked to the standard of the cross, 
and were made partakers of spiritual 
life. 

To the Berlin Station this was a time of 
great rejoicing. Parents who had yearned 
over their children, wives and husbands 
who had plead in prayer for their uncon- 
verted companions, and friends who had 
long invoked the blessings of heaven upon 
their neighbors, now exulted in the fulflll- 
menfof God’s promises in hearing and an- 
swering their manifold petitions. To all it 
was evident that God was in the assembly 
of the saints, and that he did not visit his 
people in vain. 

Under the influence of this revival great 
results were manifest. Mr. Evans, the law- 


192 


LIFE m THE LAITY. 


yer, had turned from his briefs to the altars 
of devotion, and the prediction was already 
current that he would give his life to the 
ministry. Mr. Parsons, the keeper of the 
principal hotel, had poured the liquid fire 
from his decanters, and the evening and the 
morning witnessed a gathering of his house- 
hold around the domestic altar. The care- 
less and the indifferent were become zealous 
advocates of the religion of the Gospel, and 
many of them gave indisputable evidence 
that they had passed from death unto 
life. 

As the fruit of this revival a very large 
number were gathered into the Church, and 
our station was now in a more prosperous 
condition than at any former period of its 
history. Conversions continued frequent to 
the close of the conference year, when 
Brother Golden’s term expired, and he was 
removed to another charge. He was fol- 
lowed by Mr. Hevins, a good preacher, but, 
under the circumstances, wholly unable to 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 193 

supply his predecessor’s place. Indeed no 
stranger could come in and take the oversight 
of a class of young converts like this, and be 
to them like the one who led them to Christ. 
Most of them felt for the time being like 
sheep without a shepherd, and before the 
new pastor could form their acquaintance 
a considerable number were gathered into 
other folds. The settled pastors of the vil- 
lage were anxious to enlarge their own 
Churches, and taking advantage of the 
change which our itinerancy so imperiously 
demanded, did so to our disadvantage. As 
on several other occasions, much of the 
strength of the revival was diverted from its 
legitimate place, and not a little of it en- 
tirely lost. 

Still the revival was the occasion of great 
rejoicing. Much fruit was gathered that, it 
was believed, would remain unto eternal 
life. A new impulse was given to the 
affairs of the Church, and its members were 
greatly encouraged. The influence was ap- 
13 


194 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


parent in all departments of the work. 
The benevolent collections were larger than 
ever before, and in things spiritual and 
temporal the station was in the enjoyment 
of goodly prosperity. 


LIFE m THE LAITY. 


195 


CHAPTER XIX. 

RESULTS OP THE REVIVAL — REVIEW — ATTAINMENTS — 
CONCLUSION. 

Nothing of especial interest has occurred in 
the history of Berlin Station for several 
years. The preachers that have come in 
rapid succession and stayed their appointed 
seasons, have been good and faithful men, 
and, with but few exceptions, have given 
general satisfaction. Revivals, more or less 
powerful, have prevailed from time to time, 
and notwithstanding the losses that have 
occurred from death and removal to other 
localities, its membership is in the enjoy- 
ment of a steady increase. The station oc- 
cupies an honorable position in the confer- 
ence, being classed among the very best, 
and it is by no means unworthy of its repu- 
tation. 


196 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


The reader, who has perused the forego- 
ing pages, may be interested in knowing 
something further of the men to whom 
reference has. been made. On this point a 
few words must suffice. Brother Ames is, in 
all respects, the leading man of the station. 
His enlarged views have been adopted by 
his co-laborers and carried to their practical 
results. It is no longer considered the chief 
business of a steward to study Church econ- 
omy, and curtail the offerings of the people 
for fear of making them poor. Under his 
guidance the charge has risen to its present 
attitude. While free to give to every good 
cause, and sometimes paying out more than 
kis brethren thought prudent, he has en- 
joyed great financial success. In business 
he has been, prospered above his neighbors, 
and though scattering abroad with a liberal 
hand, he has also gathered in abundance. 
Unlike most others, he did not simply re- 
solve to be benevolent when he became 
rich. He has been a liberal supporter of 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


197 


the Church from the beginning, increasing 
in his contributions as he increased in 
wealth. Having thus disciplined himself, 
he is not likely to become weary in well- 
doing, but rather to be always abounding in 
the work of the Lord. 

His spiritual advancement has been cor- 
respondingly rapid. Few men enjoy more 
abiding peace in our Lord Jesus Christ than 
he. The means of grace are his delight, 
and they are not neglected. In short he is 
a model man and a model Christian, loved 
and respected by all who know him. 

Brother Gray is still living, but takes no 
active part in the affairs of the Church. 
His penuriousness has increased with his 
age, and though it is evident to all that he 
is on the borders of the spirit-world, he is 
more than ever attached to the things of 
earth. His treasured gold is held with a 
tenacity almost unaccountable, and he clings 
to his possessions as though he were to en- 
joy them forever. Though still professing 


198 


LIFE IN THE LAITY. 


to be a well-wisher to the Church, he cannot 
be induced to contribute of his means to 
promote her interests. When called upon 
he invariably refers to the past, assuming 
that he has done his part, and that younger 
men must now do the work and bear the 
burdens of the Gospel. 

Brother Gray, in fact, is a superannuated 
Christian. Though possessing means with 
which he might bless the Church and send 
a thrill of joy even to heathen lands, he has 
retired from the contest, leaving his silver 
and gold to rust and canker, as it is with- 
held from his Master’s service. He is no 
longer “ a soldier of the cross,” but rather a 
looker on, while the battle is being fought 
by other and braver men. 

His spiritual condition is as might be ex- 
pected. A thousand evils in Church and 
state present themselves, and over them he 
constantly broods. In all things around 
him he sees nothing but what is shrouded in 
darkness. The age is degenerate beyond 


LIFE m THE LAITY. 


199 


hope of recovery. The Church has de- 
parted from its first love, and Christians 
have lost their vitality and power with God. 
Even the children are wickeder than were 
the children in his day. Thus he reasons 
and finds no relief. His brethren shun his 
presence, and the minister finds it a cross to 
visit his household and be compelled to 
listen to his complaints. To all who know 
him he is an object of pity, and yet he has 
few sympathizers, and still fewer confiden- 
tial friends. His case is not unfrequently 
referred to as an example and a warning to 
those who are inclined to follow his steps, 
and, like him, become wedded to the world 
while professing the religion of Christ. 

Brothers Titus and Benton are out of the 
Church, the one expelled and the other 
withdrawn. Sister Quigley has also left; 
the three together having embraced the 
doctrines of modern spiritualism. Here we 
leave them, with but little hope that they 
will be recovered from their apostasy and 


200 


LIFE m THE LAITY. 


restored to the truth as it is revealed in the 
sacred Scriptures. 

Mr. Oliver is yet faithfully laboring in 
his department as a local preacher. Here 
he has long done good service, and he is 
not now without the respect and esteem of 
his brethren. His fellow, Brother Burns, 
has gone to a sect hearing an honorable and 
high-sounding name, where he could more 
easily obtain the honors of an ordained 
minister. He has his appointments every 
Sabbath, and is hailed by his new friends 
as a burning and shining light. 

Most of the others to whom the reader has 
been introduced are in their places, as faith- 
ful and devoted disciples of Christ. Some 
have passed away, triumphing over death 
through faith in Jesus, and have doubtless 
entered into rest. Others are ready to de- 
part and be with Christ, and are calmly 
waiting to hear it said, “ It is enough ; come 
up higher.” 


THE END. 


The Itinerant Minister— His Family and People. 


LIFE IN THE ITINERANCY, 

A STOKT EXHIBITING THE VARIED EXPERIENCE OP A 


^inisRr an^r J'amilg 

FROM ORDINATION TO SUPERANNUATION. 


DEDICATED TO THE WIVES OP METHODIST MINISTERS, WHO SHARE, 
EQUALLY WITH THEIR HUSBANDS, THE TRIALS AND TRIUMPHS 
OP THE ITINERANT MINISTRY, 

BY ONE 

“ Who, long devoted to its toils and cares. 

Enjoys its triumphs, its reverses shares.” 

In one Volume, 335 pp. 12mo. Price, $1 00. 


PITBLISHED BY CAKLTON & POETEK, 

200 Mulberry-street, IVew-York. 


The above work cannot fail to interest, instruct, and de- 
light readers of all classes, for it is one of the most genial 
and interesting of stories, told in a very pleasant manner. 
It will, however, possess deep and especial attraction for that 
large and respectable body of Christians of whose itinerant 
ministry, in their toils, their trials, and their triumphs, it 
gives such graphic and life-like portraitures. 


WHAT REVIEWERS SAY OF IT. 

“ That is a work which should he read by every minister 
and every member in the Methodist Episcopal Church,” said 
one of the most devoted, accomplished, and intelligent ladies 
of our communion, as she finished the reading of Life in the 
Itinerancy. This sentiment, in substance, has been expressed 
by all whom we have heard speak of its merits. It is de- 
servedly popular with persons of every Northern In- 
dependent. 


LIFE IN THE ITINERANCY, 


It is well written. The composition and structure of the 
book, as a whole, exhibit traits of decided artistic excellence. 
It is neither one side nor the other, like “ Sunny Side” and 
“ Shady Side,” but takes a middle path, combining in due 
proportions sun and shade. Its eifect will be salutary. Ma- 
ny a useful truth is taught here, that without offense would 
not perhaps be listened to in any other form. The manner 
beguiles attention, and the instruction once gained, will be 
as beneficial, probably, as if acquired in a more formal man- 
ner . — Northern Independent. 

The ups and downs, the trials and conquests, the poverty, 
pinchings, and unexpected providences of a Methodist preach- 
er’s history, are here given with an accuracy which will be 
identified, in many cases, as true to the life . — Methodist Prot- 
estant. 

The subject, as well as the masterly manner in which it is 
treated, at once takes hold, and retains the reader’s atten- 
tion, and also excites in him the deepest interest. All that 
passes in a minister’s family, together with the innumerable 
incidents consequent upon a life of change such as is the lot 
of a laborer in the vineyard of the Lord, especially one of 
the Methodist comiection, are faitlifully recorded. — Phila. 
Daily Times. 

This work is designed to illustrate the life, labors, trials 
and triumphs of a Methodist minister and his family. It is 
written in a popular style, calculated to please. Its author 
was doubtless “ experienced ” in the things of which he 
wrote ; for he has daguerreotyped the various characters and 
incidents so perfectly that w'c are made to feel that we are 
living over the last twenty-four years of our life. — Wesleyan. 

This work reveals the very animus of our ministerial sys- 
tem. All sorts of vicissitudes and Church characters pass 
over the scene. — Zion's Herald. 

2 


■ LIFE IN THE ITINERANCY. 


It is vividly and truthfully drawn, and though the char- 
acters are fictitious, the incidents are hut too real. A sum- 
mary of the heads of the principal chapters will show the 
character of the work : “ Call to the Ministry. The Confer- 
ence. The First Sabbath. Emily Porter. The New Bride. 
The Sewing Society. Housekeeping. Visiting. The First 
Eemoval. The New Station. Old Mrs. Blakie. Mistaken 
Zeal. Making Calls. The Donation Visit. Economy. The 
Eevival. Another Eemoval. Calls at the Parsonage. The 
Quarterly Conference. Out of Debt. The Superannuated 
Preacher. Books and Study. Hard Times. The Pastor's 
Family. City Stations. Calls for Money. The District 
Appointments. The Children. The Last Appointment. 
Superannuation . ” — Evening Journal, 

This book gives a clear, comprehensive, inside view of the 
workings of the Methodist itinerancy. It is full of truth, 
and written in a racy, fascinating style; and highly illus- 
trated, not with wood or steel engravings, but with finely 
executed and striking pen-portraits and scenic representa- 
tions. Its author is a live Methodist preacher^ and the book 
is well calculated to be useful to members of the Church. — 
Northern Christian Advocate. 

A telling picture of the “sunny side” and “shady side” 
of the Methodist preacher’s life and labors. The book will 
be welcome in the homes of the wom-out preachers, to aid 
them in “fighting their battles o’er again,” as well as by the 
earnest young men who are just entering upon their arduous 
work. — Weekly Visitor. 

Few of the many volumes which have recently been de- 
voted to the delineation of life in the pastorate, reveal so 
fully the nature of the trials which arise from the inadequacy 
of clerical support, and the inconsiderateness and cruelty of 
officious spirits among the people. — Harper’s Magazine. 

8 


LIFE IN THE ITINERANCY, 


We know not the author of this volume ; but the produc- 
tion is painfully true to life. The experiences narrated are 
no fictions. A more self-denying and self-sacrificing class 
of men than Methodist ministers does not exist. The pain- 
ful changes of social relations, and the constant crossing of 
all local attachments, are often aggravated by the life-long 
pressure of present poverty and prospective want. Under 
these circumstances it requires strong faith in God to' enable 
one to toil on to the end ; but the large portion of the com- 
pany have been enabled to do this, and triumph at last. 
This volume is not only deeply interesting, but its -wide cir- 
culation in the Methodist denomination would not fail to do 
good. — Ladies^ Bepositonj . 

The Itinerancy as it is — not its sunny side nor its shady 
side specially — ^is the subject pictured in this volume. It is 
elementarily fact ; the grouping and the drapery alone are 
furnished from the writer’s conception. He has been con- 
sidered as one of the most successful essayists in this new 
literature. Those who commence his narrative are apt, like 
his hero, to persevere steadfastly to the end. If truth in an 
imaginative garb be allowedly contemplated, it can be no- 
where more innocently studied, perhaps, than in these pages. 
— Methodist Quarterly Beview. 

Some of the scenes are exceedingly life-like, and the whole 
story is creditable to the tact and chastened imagination of 
the author . — National Magazine. 

4 


396 92 





X • 


♦ » 






I' '..,*1 



Mi 



iL 


* 


y » • 




» * . I H 



I < 


' S » -*■ I I 


>!.:■ 



'P' ' 

v> •' . - ' •' 


'*. V 


s 





k y 





' • 


* ■^P‘=» > 

* ^<^J 





- ^ 

! 

’ iP’^4v - 

‘<^ - * £f * = I 




^ <§ 


*» 


^ & 
ifi ^ 





f- '«« 

%o“ * • ' ' 

• «-'»/<!>o • c^ V 



%4>' 




'‘^K* ^ 6-' %. '»PSO'3 

roKP’ * °'\o 


» ■ OV ; 

’ iPV o 

V% 



3 Q .VA o 





' '^ 9 # * A^ 

v^?’ * 

9< 


n 

aV/V o c* 

^ ^ Deacidified using the Bookkeeper process. 




Neutralizing Agent; Magnesium Oxide 
Treatment Date: 

AUG 1996 



„ V'’A » 


lifao^KEEPER 


PRESERVATION TECHNOLOGIES, INC. 
1 1 1 Thomson Park Drive 
Cranberry Twp., PA 16066 










iW/i».*'/' 


W/ , 

C°^»'^‘’''<' ■O-.'' * ’ •■'»/*&*'<>• 




^x:;4»^;:“:^4^ 


'a>cr 

" «> -vVA 5 







\ ^^'^-■''2%S>S‘" A^'J^S 


tt“X-;X • • i’^.- “X- • 



1> *’»i'i 








4r ^ A ^ ^ 6?. ft *(• 



HECKMAN i: 
BINDERY INC. |l 

SEP 92 









